Mindful screen time for macOS without blocking apps
Hard blockers kill your flow. GentleLimit protects it. GentleLimit is a macOS app that helps you build mindful screen habits without blocking apps. Instead of interruptions, it keeps your usage visible through subtle signals and floating widgets in your peripheral view. Stay aware of how you spend time in distracting apps while keeping your focus intact. Private by design — all data stays on your Mac.
GentleLimit lives entirely in the menu bar with no dock icon or desktop clutter. It is always one click away and completely out of the way when not needed, fitting seamlessly into minimal macOS workflows.
GentleLimit surfaces Insights that highlight trends in app usage, including immersion sessions, frequent context switches, and high-usage days. This helps users recognize behavioral patterns without requiring external analytics or cloud storage.
GentleLimit provides real-time visual awareness through calm progress indicators, floating widgets, and subtle signals (soft chimes, haptic feedback) that keep usage visible in peripheral view without forcing app closures or hard blocks. Users maintain full control while staying mindful of their habits.
GentleLimit allows users to set per-app and daily limits with real-time progress bars that shift color from green to amber to red. When limits are reached, an optional overlay provides a gentle reminder to step back, but users can extend by a few minutes—never forced to stop.
GentleLimit runs entirely on-device with no external analytics, no account creation, and no data leaving the Mac. All monitoring and analysis are local, ensuring complete privacy and data ownership.