Amazon Alexa adds a new feature to help children sleep, is it adorable or unsettling?

Amazon has launched a new bedtime story skill for its virtual assistant Alexa, specifically designed to help children relax at the end of the day. This innovative story, titled Tumbles and Stripes, has been crafted based on scientific principles about sleep and promises to be an effective resource for family nighttime routines.

The narration of Tumbles and Stripes was written by television presenter Vogue Williams, who also lends her voice to tell the story. The creation of this tale was guided by Professor Helen Ball, a sleep expert from the Durham Infancy & Sleep Centre, who optimized the pacing and themes of the story to make it more comforting.

The plot follows a mother tiger and her two little cubs as they go through their bedtime routine. Inspired by Vogue's interest in animals, the story includes repeated phrases and a gradual decrease in volume throughout the narration, elements that foster an environment conducive to helping children feel sleepy.

In addition to the narration, Amazon has introduced a complete sleep routine that accompanies the story. This option includes the use of brown noise and dimming smart lights, which can further enhance the relaxing effect, provided that the appropriate devices are connected to Alexa.

However, this proposition of using Alexa to tell stories instead of parents doing it personally has generated mixed opinions. Some may find it strange, arguing that bedtime stories are more effective when shared in person. Others see it as a valid option, especially for those who cannot follow a complete bedtime routine each night.

A study conducted by Amazon revealed that 25% of respondents in the UK face difficulties in putting their children to bed regularly, and 12% acknowledge having persistent problems in this regard. In this context, the story Tumbles and Stripes presents itself as a novel and endearing alternative to help parents with this daily challenge.