LSN : News : AI outperforms human therapists in couples therapy study

ZZZN sleep apparel system blends biometric data with wearable comfort

ZZZN Sleep Apparel System, Japan

Japan – As sleep technology continues to evolve, ZZZN has introduced its Sleep Apparel System – a multi-functional puffer jacket designed to double as sleepwear, allowing users to rest anywhere, any time. Inspired by traditional Japanese Yagi winter wear, the jacket features biometric data-monitoring, integrated headphones and adjustable elements for personalised comfort.

Lined with photoelectric fibre, the puffer jacket is lightweight yet insulated for extreme weather conditions. Embedded within the headpiece, the built-in headphones play frequency-based music to encourage deep sleep, while a red light – reminiscent of a sunset – helps users drift off. Upon waking, the lighting shifts to blue, accompanied by soothing music for a gentle sunrise experience.

A key component of the system is the SOXAI ring, which tracks sleep quality, stress levels and heart rate via a smartphone app. The jacket was made available for public trials in Tokyo on 7 February 2025, before its official debut at Expo 2025 Osaka in April.

For more insights on the future of wearables designed for sleep, read our Sleep Enhancement Market report. In Wellbeing Wear, we also analysed how fashion has evolved beyond style and function to become a vital tool for boosting mental and physical wellbeing.

Strategic opportunity

Consider how to use biometric monitoring in clothing beyond sleepwear. Biometric sensors, temperature regulation and adaptive materials could be integrated into everyday apparel for enhanced wellbeing

AI outperforms human therapists in couples therapy study

US – AI may soon play a bigger role in mental health support, as a new PLOS Mental Health study has found that ChatGPT therapists often outperformed human psychotherapists. Researchers tested ChatGPT against experienced therapists in couples therapy scenarios, such as one partner dismissing the other’s depression.

The study included 830 participants in relationships who were asked to assess and identify whether responses came from AI or a therapist. They correctly guessed the source just over half the time (56.1% for therapists, 51.2% for AI). Participants generally preferred ChatGPT’s responses, rating them higher for understanding the speaker, showing empathy and demonstrating cultural competence.

The study says this may be an early indication that ChatGPT has the potential to improve psychotherapeutic processes. Experts have long explored AI’s role in therapy, from chatbot-driven interventions to administrative support for clinicians. While AI won’t replace human therapists, its growing ability to provide empathetic, culturally aware support could make mental health resources more accessible and affordable.

Explore our macrotrend report The Synthocene Era: Merging Human and Machine Intelligence to discover the rise of AI-driven emotional intelligence, AI companions and virtual coaches extending beyond therapy.

Kind Humanoid by Fuseproject, US

Strategic opportunity

Actors of the healthcare industry should consider how to collaborate with AI developers to integrate machine intelligence into mental health services, supporting therapists rather than replacing them

Stat: Younger travellers set sail as the cruise industry gains momentum

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady, UK

Global – The cruise industry is riding a wave of renewed popularity, driven by a younger, more engaged demographic. Millennials now comprise 37% of all cruisers, while Gen Z adults account for 24% – over-indexing compared to their share of the total population. This shift has been accompanied by a rise in net favourability for major cruise lines, increasing by more than 10 points since late 2021, according to Morning Consult Intelligence.

According to the research, in October 2024, 30% of Millennials with plans to travel in the next year said their trip would ‘definitely’ or ‘probably’ include a cruise, and 21% of Gen Z said the same.

Younger travellers are drawn to cruises for their mix of convenience, adventure and social connection. Millennials and Gen Z are significantly more likely than the general population to seek community and social status, presenting opportunities for brands to enhance onboard experiences through curated events and premium offerings.

Head to our Cruise Ship Market for more on how the industry is redefining its purpose to keep up with travellers’ demands for sustainability and authenticity, and balancing its appeal to both new and loyal consumers.

Strategic opportunity

Cruise brands have a crucial window to secure long-term loyalty from younger travellers by launching initiatives such as eco-certified voyages, premium all-inclusive packages and immersive, tech-driven entertainment