💡 Ideas & Tips
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18 juil. 2024
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2 min read
Do you dream of a world where your phone automatically blocks certain apps when you're at work, don't want to be disturbed, or just want to relax in the evening? Well, you don't have to imagine it anymore—it's real and likely already in your hands!
For some time now, iOS has featured what are called Focus Modes. They're a real game-changer: with just one tap, you can change the configuration of your iPhone. From wallpapers, available apps, and allowed notifications, these automations can become indispensable when perfectly set up.
Don't believe it? Let us show you our latest discoveries and how to easily replicate them on your iPhone.
What is a Focus Filter?
Since version 15 of its OS, Apple has made it possible to transform your iPhone by activating a Focus Filter. By default, Apple offers several pre-existing options: "Do Not Disturb," "Sleep," "Personal," and "Work."
Even though some are pre-configured, don't worry: not only are they customizable, but they also come with so many options! To find this screen, go to Settings > Focus. Then tap on the filter of your choice to start customizing.
Filters Focus' Use Cases
Filters can significantly impact your iPhone based on your chosen settings. However, there's one thing they don't do: block specific apps! It's a shame because that's probably their main appeal. Don't see the point? Let me give you some concrete examples:
At Work: Not productive at the office and feeling sluggish? Block notifications from non-urgent personal messages and distracting, invasive apps (like social media) to boost motivation and avoid procrastination.
Do Not Disturb: In a meeting, and your phone keeps catching your eye? Protect your focus by blocking not just notifications but also apps. This way, you can fully concentrate on what you're doing.
At Home: You get home, and your first instinct is to dive into the couch and start scrolling. Result: dinner's not ready, and it's already dark! You can temporarily block certain apps to encourage yourself to unwind without scrolling and take care of yourself.
Automatically Blocking Apps with Focus Filters
Here's the part you've all been eagerly awaiting: automatically blocking apps via Focus Filters. It's so simple that you'll be telling everyone about it.
You'll need the Jomo app, available for free on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Once installed, go to the Rules > Sessions section. At the bottom of the screen, you'll find a "Templates" section. Tap on "Add."
We'll create a session template that will link to your Focus Filter. A session is just a time slot during which one or more apps or websites are blocked via Jomo. Don't worry; it's all straightforward!
Name and customize your session to your liking.
In "Apps & Websites," select the apps and websites to block.
You can add one or more breaks (allowing temporary interruption of the block).
In "Timing," choose "Always-On."
Confirm by tapping "Create Template."
That's it, this part's done (it wasn't hard, right?). Head to Settings > Focus. Choose the filter you want. Configure it as you like, then scroll to the bottom.
Tap "Add Filter."
In the choices presented, tap "Jomo - Start a Session during this focus."
Choose your template from the list, then tap "Add."
You're done! Depending on what you've set, your Focus Filter should automatically start and block the apps you chose in Jomo.
We're huge fans of Focus Filters; we find them so useful that we've made plenty, including one to turn our iPhone into a true dumbphone at bedtime. Check it out if you're interested!
