How I'm Using iOS Focus Modes to Reduce Distractions
In iOS 15, Apple introduced a new feature called Focus. I didn't care for the mode when iOS 15 was introduced. However, with iOS 16, Apple gave its Focus feature steroids. Focus on iOS 16 is my favourite thing Apple added to its products.
I must admit, the Focus feature is beneficial when you want to get work done. It is also helpful when you want to focus on a task and blind out unnecessary distractions.
In this post, I'll talk about how I use Focus in my daily routine to help minimize unwanted notifications.
However and first of all:
What does Focus in iOS do
Originally, Focus was an expansion of Do Not Disturb. It allowed the users to make a set of different permissions to control the behaviour of iOS devices and apps. You can have separate filters for notifications when you are at work, when you are sleeping, when you are studying, and much more.
iOS 16 improved all of this. Instead of only controlling the behaviour of iOS and the allowed notifications, now you can easily control your home screen and lock screen.
I will not go through all improvements of Focus mode in iOS 16 in this post. I will let you know how I use Focus mode in my daily routine. I may inspire you to start using the mode yourself.
How I'm using Focus mode every day
In my daily schedule, I use the following modes to get through my days:
Work Focus
I do not have to turn on this mode actively. It knows via my location whenever I'm in the office. And if working remotely or not in the office, it will automatically switch from 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. every weekday.
I limited the notifications in this mode. In work mode, I only receive notifications from apps I use for work. Phone calls are allowed from everyone in this mode.
