Mastering Focus Mode on Android: A Complete Guide for Optimal Productivity

Key Takeaways

Focus Mode is a tool for eliminating distractions on Android devices, similar to Do Not Disturb but more focused and simple to use.

Google Pixel phones offer a simplified version of Focus Mode where users can pause selected apps. In contrast, Samsung Galaxy phones provide enhanced customization options that enable users to specifically allow certain apps during this mode.

Both implementations allow users to activate Focus Mode instantly or schedule it, offering the potential to cultivate healthier smartphone habits.

"Digital wellbeing" tools play a significant role in today's smartphones. These tools are designed to promote healthier usage habits. One such tool is Focus Mode, which is available on all Android devices. Let's take a closer look at how it works.

You may already be familiar with Focus Mode, as the iPhone and iPad also offer a feature with the same name. However, the functionality of Focus Mode can vary slightly depending on the Android device you own. In this demonstration, we will showcase how it works on Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices.

What Is Focus Mode?

Focus Mode is a powerful feature designed to help you minimize distractions. Unlike Do Not Disturb, it is simpler and more effective at keeping you focused on the task at hand. While Do Not Disturb can be scheduled, Focus Mode is designed to be manually activated whenever you require a break.

Focus Mode on Google Pixel Phones

Focus Mode on Google Pixel phones and other Non-Samsung Android devices is quite similar to the "default" experience. To access it, simply open the Settings app and navigate to "Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls."

Tap "Focus Mode."

Select all the apps you'd like to pause when Focus Mode is enabled.

You can turn it on immediately by selecting "Turn On Now," or create a schedule for it to run automatically by tapping "Set a Schedule."

It's more handy to add a "Focus Mode" tile to the notification panel so you can quickly toggle it on without diving through the Settings menus.

Focus Mode on Samsung Galaxy Phones

To access Focus Mode on Samsung Galaxy devices, simply swipe down once from the top of the screen and tap on the gear icon to open the Settings.

Scroll down and select "Modes and Routines."

Select one of the pre-made modes or tap "Add Mode."

If you're making a new Mode, give it a name and icon.

To restrict apps during the mode, toggle on "Restrict App Usage."

Now select all the apps you want to be able to use and receive notifications from. Everything else will be blocked.

You can tap "Turn On" to enable it right away or select "Turn On Automatically" to create some conditions.

Samsung also allows you to enable Do Not Disturb mode alongside it, change some system settings, and customize the wallpaper when the mode is running.

That's all there is to it. It would have been more convenient if Samsung offered the option to select the specific apps you want to restrict, but the outcome remains unchanged. Such tools can be truly beneficial in cultivating healthier phone usage habits, especially when you perceive your phone to be a source of distraction.