Monocle 2.0 for macOS

Product Introduction

1. Monocle 2.0 for macOS is a menu-bar application that dynamically blurs all inactive windows while maintaining sharp focus on the active window, creating a distraction-free workspace through elegant visual prioritization.
2. The core value lies in its ability to enhance productivity and mental clarity by reducing visual noise, offering a modern implementation of window dimming with advanced customization and smooth transitions for seamless workflow integration.

Main Features

1. Monocle 2.0 introduces smooth window-to-window transitions that animate blur effects during app switching, ensuring visual continuity and reducing abrupt context shifts during multitasking.
2. Users can enable an experimental mode to keep all windows of the same application unblurred when switching between them, preserving contextual awareness while maintaining focus on related tasks.
3. The redesigned Settings UI offers granular control over overlay opacity, fade timing, and theme synchronization across all Monocle windows, with full support for macOS 26 Tahoe and simplified permission management for auto-hiding system elements.

Problems Solved

1. The product addresses visual overload caused by multiple open windows, which fragments attention and reduces productivity in knowledge work environments.
2. It specifically targets macOS users who require sustained focus for tasks like writing, coding, or design work, particularly those working with multiple apps or complex workflows.
3. Typical scenarios include maintaining concentration during deep work sessions, reducing eye strain during extended screen time, and creating presentation-ready desktop layouts for screenshots or video recordings.

Unique Advantages

1. Unlike conventional dimming tools like HazeOver, Monocle employs sophisticated gradient blurring that preserves peripheral context while eliminating distractions, coupled with aesthetic design principles rarely seen in utility software.
2. The experimental GIF Preview generator enables users to create before/after comparisons of their workspace layouts, directly supporting content creators in showcasing productivity setups on social media.
3. Competitive advantages include a one-time purchase model (versus subscription-based alternatives), native integration with macOS 14.6+ features like function key shortcuts, and multi-display compatibility optimized for modern workstation configurations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What macOS versions are supported? Monocle 2.0 requires macOS 14.6 or newer, with specific optimizations for macOS 26 Tahoe including updated permission handling and system UI integration.
2. How does this differ from HazeOver? Unlike HazeOver's simple dimming, Monocle uses dynamic blur gradients with adjustable opacity, offers experimental same-app window grouping, and includes productivity-focused tools like workspace screenshot generators.
3. Does it support multiple monitors? Yes, Monocle provides full multi-display support with independent blur control per screen and optimized performance for both built-in and external high-resolution displays.