Polaris Focus
In a world overflowing with distractions, maintaining focus has become increasingly difficult, with significant effects on productivity and overall well-being.
iOS
Product Design
Research
User Interviews
Usability Testing
Creative Direction
Design System
Many people struggle to maintain concentration in our notification-heavy environment. Research shows that frequent distractions can fragment attention, which reduces productivity and increases stress.
Facts
Research
Users
I conducted in-depth discovery interviews with a diverse group of participants to understand their daily productivity struggles, preferred focus methods, and desired features in a focus app.
Many users expressed the need for a simple and customizable approach to focus intervals, clean interface, and supportive accessibility options. Additionally, users shared their frustrations with apps that lacked personalization, which inspired our themes and personalization features.
Market
I analyzed leading focus and productivity apps to identify strengths and gaps in the market.
This analysis revealed that while many apps offered basic timers, few provided basic accessibility settings, custom UIs, or preset focus intervals. With Polaris Focus, I set out to address these gaps by adopting a holistic approach to focus and inclusivity.
Inclusivity
To ensure Polaris was inclusive, I researched the most recent accessibility best practices and incorporated features like voice prompts, high-contrast visuals, reduced motion and effects, and screen reader compatibility. By consulting accessibility guidelines and testing with users who had visual and auditory needs, I created a product that serves a wider, more diverse audience.
Validation
I conducted usability tests to refine core features and ensure an intuitive user experience. During testing, I discovered that users preferred quick, predefined options over the initial native carousel picker for setting focus intervals. Based on this feedback, I introduced timer presets that allowed users to choose from commonly used presets with a single tap. This adjustment not only simplified the setup process but also improved overall user satisfaction.
Solution
Create a truly user-centered focus experience, addressing the challenges of distraction, personalization, and accessibility. Ensure that all users, including those with visual, auditory, or cognitive needs, can fully engage with the app. Develop an outstanding focus tool that empowers users to achieve their goals while maintaining a sense of well-being and control over their digital experience.
Encourage sustained focus while prioritizing user well-being.
Support diverse accessibility needs to ensure all users can benefit from the app.
Provide a customizable experience that adapts to various user preferences and needs.
Key features
ULTRA Focus blocks all non-essential notifications, allowing users to work distraction-free.
This mode is particularly useful for tackling deep work tasks that demand full attention. User data privacy is a priority—no data ever leaves the device, and permissions can be managed directly within Settings.
With accessibility at its core, Polaris offers a robust suite of settings tailored to support a wide range of user needs.
The app integrates voice commands and seamless Siri functionality, enabling users to manage their sessions hands-free. For added usability, haptic feedback provides tactile cues, while customizable font size and high-contrast visuals improve readability and navigation.
To accommodate different visual preferences, Polaris also includes options to reduce motion and adjust visual effects like blur and transparency, ensuring a clean, focused interface.
These features create an inclusive experience, making Polaris accessible for users who benefit from enhanced visual and auditory support, empowering them to stay productive in a distraction-free environment.
Themes and Personalization
Polaris prioritizes comfort and personalization by offering flexible layouts and themes, enabling users to select timer views and color schemes that best fit their preferences and environment.
This level of customization is particularly valued by those working long hours, as it helps reduce eye strain and promotes a more enjoyable focus experience.
Polaris Focus offers a range of additional features designed to enhance the user experience and further support sustained focus.
The quick start feature allows users to dive straight into their focus sessions with just a swipe, bypassing the need for customization each time. For those who prefer structure, timer presets offer a selection of commonly used intervals, enabling users to get started quickly and efficiently. Detailed stats track focus progress over time, helping users measure their productivity and stay motivated with visual insights into their performance. To create a more immersive focus environment, Polaris also includes a selection of ambient sounds, which users can customize to suit their needs, whether it’s calming background noise or white noise, helping them stay immersed in the task at hand while minimizing distractions. These features work together to create a seamless, personalized focus experience, empowering users to maintain their concentration and boost productivity effortlessly.
Challenge
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To address this, I redesigned the screen with straightforward, refined language that clarified the trial’s duration, benefits, and cancellation terms.
The impact was immediate—trial activations rose by 37% boosting annual subscriptions, proving that clear, user-focused messaging can make all the difference in building trust and guiding users confidently through sign-up.
Polaris has received positive feedback from users who appreciate its straightforward approach to focus and well-being. The accessibility features have been especially well-received, as they allow more people to stay on track with their goals and engage with Polaris in a way that meets their individual needs.
Polaris Focus exemplifies the power of intentional design in promoting a balanced, productive lifestyle. By combining powerful focus tools with accessibility, Polaris enables users to reclaim their attention and work toward their goals sustainably. As a designer, this project has reinforced my belief in creating products that are both functional and empathetic, supporting users in a holistic way.
TL;DR
In today’s distraction-heavy landscape, staying focused has become increasingly challenging, impacting productivity and well-being.
Polaris Focus was designed to empower users to reclaim their attention and make meaningful progress on their goals without sacrificing their mental health. The app provides a productivity-focused timer with built-in accessibility features and personalized options, making focus more achievable and sustainable.
As a designer, this project has reinforced my belief in the importance of creating products that are not only functional but also empathetic. Polaris has shown me the impact of designing tools that support users in a holistic way, addressing both their productivity needs and their well-being. By prioritizing accessibility, personalization, and data privacy, I was able to craft an experience that helps users maintain focus while ensuring they feel understood and supported. This project has deepened my commitment to designing with intention—creating solutions that empower users to achieve their goals in a balanced and mindful way.