Hey Focus is a powerful app designed to help users combat procrastination and boost productivity. It features strict blocking mechanisms, making it ideal for those who prefer a disciplined approach. The locked mode is so effective that if you need to disable it during a session, you’ll have to contact support for assistance.
What is HeyFocus?
HeyFocus is an application that blocks distracting websites and apps, ensuring you stay focused on important tasks. It offers two modes: blocked and unblocked. In the blocked mode, access to social networks is restricted, and sound is turned off, preventing not only music but also calls and notifications. The unblocked mode allows normal usage.
HeyFocus App Features
- Custom Blocking Rules: Edit the list of restricted websites and apps.
- Focus Sessions: Set and schedule focus periods using the Pomodoro technique.
- Strict Blocking Mode: Blocks access to social networks, Gmail, and disables sound.
- Motivational Quotes: Personalize your experience with motivational quotes.
- Schedule Activation: Plan your focus sessions according to your work schedule.
Who Needs the Hey Focus App?
HeyFocus is ideal for anyone who battles procrastination and distractions, including:
- Remote workers needing to enhance productivity.
- Students seeking better concentration during study sessions.
- Freelancers and entrepreneurs managing their own schedules.
- Anyone looking to reduce screen time and improve focus.
What I Don’t Like
While HeyFocus is effective, it has its downsides:
- Difficult Uninstallation: Not straightforward to remove the app.
- Platform Limitation: Only available for Apple devices.
- Strict Control: The app’s control during focus sessions can feel overly restrictive.
- Support-Dependent Unlocking: Requires contacting support to disable focus in emergencies.
How to Use HeyFocus App
Using HeyFocus is simple:
- Download and Install: Get the app from the App Store.
- Set Up Blocking Rules: Customize which sites and apps to block.
- Schedule Focus Sessions: Use the Pomodoro technique to plan your focus periods.
- Activate and Focus: Start your session and let HeyFocus eliminate distractions.
Is There a Free Option?
HeyFocus offers a free trial, allowing users to explore its features before committing to a purchase, ensuring it meets your needs without upfront costs.
HeyFocus App Plans and Pricing
HeyFocus operates on a one-time purchase model:
Focus v1 – $19
- Website and App blocking
- Schedules
- Timers
- Breaks
- Hardcore Mode
- Password Lock
- Scripting
Focus v2 – $49
- Beautiful new interface
- Multiple profiles and block lists
- Pomodoro Mode
- Statistics
- Powerful Workflows
- Everything from Focus v1 and more!
Focus Lifetime – $99
- Everything from Focus v2
- Early access to new versions
- Lifetime updates
It’s worth noting that while the $99 version includes lifetime updates, it’s unclear why this might be necessary given that the last update was six months ago and is available for download in any case.
Extra Perks for Premium HeyFocus Users
Premium users enjoy benefits such as:
- Unlimited Blocking Rules: Greater flexibility in customizing your focus settings.
- Detailed Insights and Reports: Comprehensive productivity tracking.
- Priority Customer Support: Faster assistance for issues or queries.
Hey Focus App Review: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strict Blocking Mechanism: Prevents access to social networks, Gmail, and even sound, ensuring no distractions.
- Customizable Block Lists: Allows you to edit the list of blocked websites and applications.
- Scheduled Activation: Enables you to set activation schedules for focus sessions.
- Motivational Quotes: Lets you add, edit, and delete motivational quotes for extra encouragement.
- Pomodoro Technique: Choose how many Pomodoro intervals you want to stay focused.
Cons:
- Difficult to Uninstall: The app is not listed in application directories; you need to find the shortcut in downloads and move it to the trash, but only outside of focus periods.
- No Windows or Android Support: Limited to macOS and iOS users.
- Strict Control: Once a blocked session starts, your computer feels almost out of your control, which can be uncomfortable.
- Support-Dependent Unlock: If you urgently need to unblock a feature, you must contact support for a token to disable focus.
Conclusion on the HeyFocus App
HeyFocus is a robust app that significantly helps users reduce distractions and enhance productivity. Despite its limitations, it is a highly effective tool for Apple users who are serious about staying focused.
Best HeyFocus Alternatives
For those not using Apple devices or seeking different features, consider these alternatives:
- FocusMe: A powerful multi-platform app offering strict blocking, Pomodoro sessions, deep customization, and full device control for Windows and macOS users.
- Freedom: Available on multiple platforms, including Windows, Android, and iOS.
- Cold Turkey: A strong alternative for Windows users.
- RescueTime: Offers detailed productivity tracking across all major platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use Hey Focus on my Android device?
A: No, Hey Focus is currently only available for macOS and iOS devices.