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Guide

Get started and find answers

Getting Started

1

Download & Install

Download Auto-Focus and the required "Toggle Do Not Disturb" shortcut. Install both to get started.

  • • Extract the downloaded ZIP file
  • • Drag Auto-Focus to Applications
  • • Install the shortcut from the package
Download Auto-Focus
2

Configure Focus Apps

Launch Auto-Focus and select which applications should trigger focus mode when you're working.

  • • Add your development tools (Xcode, VS Code, etc.)
  • • Configure browser focus URLs
  • • Set focus thresholds and buffer times
3

Set Up Browser Tracking

Enable browser integration to track focus on web apps like GitHub, Linear, Figma, and other work sites — no extension needed.

  • • Enable your browsers in the Browser tab
  • • Grant Automation permission when prompted
  • • Add your focus domains (just paste the URL)
4

Start Focusing

Auto-Focus will now monitor your work and automatically manage Do Not Disturb mode.

  • • Focus for 12 minutes to trigger DND
  • • Track sessions in the insights view
  • • Access controls from the menu bar

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Auto-Focus detect when I'm focused?

Auto-Focus monitors your active application and tracks how long you stay focused on configured "focus apps." When you focus for your set threshold time (default 12 minutes), it automatically enables Do Not Disturb mode.

What happens when I switch away from a focus app?

When you switch to a non-focus app, Auto-Focus starts a buffer timer (default 3 minutes). If you don't return to a focus app within this time, it ends the focus session and re-enables notifications.

Does Auto-Focus work with web applications?

Yes! Auto-Focus reads your active browser tab using macOS Automation to detect focus websites like GitHub, Linear, Figma, and other productivity tools. It works with Safari, Chrome, Brave, Edge, Arc, and more — no browser extension needed. Just configure your focus URLs in the app.

Do I need to add my browser as a focus app to track websites?

No! Browser URL tracking works independently and handles website-specific focus detection. You should not add your browser as a focus app — doing so would activate focus mode whenever the browser is open, regardless of which site you're on. URL detection only triggers focus when you're on a configured focus website.

What's the difference between Free and Auto-Focus+?

Auto-Focus Free limits you to 2 focus apps and basic insights. Auto-Focus+ removes all limits, adds advanced analytics, data export capabilities, and includes priority support and future updates.

Is my data private and secure?

Yes. Your activity data stays on your Mac: focus sessions, active apps, browser URL data, settings, and insights are not sent to our server. The app only contacts Auto-Focus servers for Plus license validation and update checks, and you can export your local data anytime in CSV or JSON format.

What macOS versions are supported?

Auto-Focus requires macOS 12.0 (Monterey) or later. It's built with SwiftUI for optimal performance and native system integration, including proper Do Not Disturb control.

Why do I need to install a Shortcut?

macOS doesn't allow apps to directly control Do Not Disturb for security reasons. The "Toggle Do Not Disturb" shortcut acts as a bridge, allowing Auto-Focus to toggle DND through Apple's official Shortcuts system.

Still have questions?

We're happy to help. Reach out anytime.

Email [email protected]