Short answer: the Pokémon Go Plus + is an auto catcher for Pokémon Go that also works as a gamified sleep tracker with the Pokémon Sleep app. It isn’t a precision sleep device, but it makes tracking your sleep fun and it comes at a reasonable price. This was my experience with it (I made the video in August 2023).
In today’s fast-paced world, looking after our physical and mental health is crucial. Most devices we buy now come with apps or features to help us live healthier lives. Whether you own a Samsung, Apple, Huawei, Xiaomi or another smartphone, you’ll likely find a Health app that tracks everything from water and food intake to step counts, and these often pair with wearables like smartwatches for more accurate data.
My Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, for example, has a triple sensor that monitors my sleep patterns, step counts and even stress levels. These devices vary in features, but they share one thing: gamification.
What is gamification?
Gamification is the use of game elements in non-gaming environments to increase engagement. You see it on websites, apps and even in most medical aids in South Africa, which reward you for reaching health goals with incentives like free smoothies, vouchers or even devices in exchange for staying active. The Pokémon Go Plus + brings that idea to gaming and sleep.
What is the Pokémon Go Plus +?
From the start, Pokémon Go aimed to get players outdoors, active and exploring. The Pokémon Go Plus + takes that further. It’s an automatic Pokémon catcher for the Pokémon Go app that syncs with your phone and app so you can catch Pokémon and spin PokéStops without physically doing it.
Here’s how it works: launch the app, sync the device and lock your phone. As you go about your day, the Pokémon Go Plus + catches Pokémon and spins PokéStops whenever you come across them. And it offers more than gameplay convenience, because it also gamifies your sleep.
Gamified sleep tracking
When used with the Pokémon Sleep app, the Pokémon Go Plus + doubles as a sleep tracker. The more consistently you track your sleep, and the longer you sleep, the better your in-game rewards.
At first I questioned how accurate and useful it would be. But it quickly became a nightly ritual. Tracking sleep stopped being a chore and became a quest to uncover different sleep types and complete my sleep dex. I found myself eager to get more partner Pokémon and level up my Snorlax.
I compared it with my Galaxy Watch 5, which has a built-in sleep tracker, and was pleasantly surprised by its accuracy. It may not match a dedicated sleep tracking device, but it fulfills its purpose remarkably well.
A step towards better sleep
The Pokémon Go Plus + and my Galaxy Watch shouldn’t be treated as highly accurate sleep measuring devices, but they’re a solid starting point. Sleep plays a pivotal role in our daily lives, and a broad overview of your sleep patterns is valuable.
Think of them as tools for spotting potential sleep issues. If the data suggests significant problems, consult a healthcare professional. If not, you can follow the sleep tips in the app and enjoy tracking your sleep in an engaging way.
Is the Pokémon Go Plus + worth it?
It comes at a reasonable price, which makes it a good starting point for monitoring your sleep habits, especially if you struggle to stay committed to tracking. The cost is comparable to entry-level smartwatches. If you play Pokémon Go, you also get the automatic catching on top.
In my experience, it improved my sleep tracking routine and gave me useful sleep tips, with bedtime reminders and weekly recaps that helped me build a healthier sleep schedule.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Pokémon Go Plus + do?
It’s an automatic catcher for the Pokémon Go app, catching Pokémon and spinning PokéStops for you when synced to your phone. It also works as a sleep tracker with the Pokémon Sleep app.
Is the Pokémon Go Plus + a good sleep tracker?
It’s a solid, fun starting point. It isn’t a precision device, but compared with my Galaxy Watch 5’s built-in sleep tracker I found it surprisingly accurate.
How do I use the Pokémon Go Plus + to track sleep?
Use it with the Pokémon Sleep app. The more consistently you track and the longer you sleep, the better your in-game rewards.
Is the Pokémon Go Plus + worth buying?
I think so, if you play Pokémon Go or want an enjoyable, affordable way to build a sleep tracking habit. Its cost is comparable to entry-level smartwatches.
The future of health tracking devices?
The Pokémon Go Plus + raises interesting questions about where health tracking is heading. How would you feel about more health features built into gaming and everyday life? As technology evolves, it’s worth embracing innovations that encourage a healthier lifestyle while keeping things enjoyable. Tell me what you think in the YouTube comments.