HazeOver - Distraction-Free Mac App

Turn your Mac into a distraction-free environment by automatically dimming background windows while you focus on your current task.

Quick Overview

What is HazeOver?

HazeOver is a Mac productivity app that helps you focus by automatically dimming inactive windows, drawing your attention to the task at hand and reducing visual distractions.

Key Features

• Automatic Dimming - Background windows fade automatically
• Customizable Intensity - Adjust dimming level to your preference
• Smart Exclusions - Keep certain apps undimmed
• Multiple Monitor Support - Works across all connected displays
• Minimal Resource Usage - Lightweight and efficient
• Menu Bar Control - Quick access to settings and controls

Student Benefits

With the GitHub Student Developer Pack:

• Free full license instead of paid version
• All premium features unlocked
• Future updates included
• No subscription required
• Lifetime access for educational use

How to Redeem

Prerequisites

• Mac computer running macOS
• Active GitHub Student Developer Pack

Step-by-Step Process

1. Access the Offer

   • Visit your GitHub Student Pack dashboard
   • Find the HazeOver offer section
   • Click to get your license key

2. Download HazeOver

   • Visit the HazeOver website
   • Download the Mac application
   • Install following standard Mac procedures

3. Activate License

   • Launch HazeOver
   • Enter your student license key
   • Enjoy distraction-free computing

Best Uses for Students

Study Sessions

• Reading and Research - Focus on PDFs and web content
• Writing and Essays - Concentrate on word processors
• Online Learning - Pay attention to video lectures
• Programming - Stay focused on code editors

Academic Work

• Thesis Writing - Long-form writing with minimal distractions
• Data Analysis - Focus on spreadsheets and analysis tools
• Design Projects - Concentrate on creative applications
• Programming Projects - Maintain focus on IDEs and terminals

Configuration and Settings

Dimming Options

• Intensity Control - From subtle to complete blackout
• Animation Speed - How quickly windows dim/undim
• Delay Settings - Time before dimming activates
• Color Customization - Choose dimming color and opacity

Smart Features

Exclusion Rules:
- Keep Spotify visible while working
- Never dim notification apps
- Preserve dock visibility
- Maintain menu bar access

Multiple Monitor Setup

• Independent Control - Different settings per monitor
• Primary Focus - Dim only secondary monitors
• Workspace Awareness - Respect macOS Spaces
• Full Screen Handling - Smart behavior in full-screen mode

Study Techniques Enhanced

Pomodoro Technique

• 25-minute Focus - Dim distractions during work periods
• Break Reminders - Undim during break periods
• Visual Cues - Clear indication of focus time
• Habit Building - Consistent visual environment

Deep Work Sessions

• Extended Focus - Maintain concentration for hours
• Research Mode - Keep reference materials visible
• Writing Flow - Eliminate visual interruptions
• Code Reviews - Focus on specific files or sections

Integration with Study Workflow

With Other Productivity Apps

• Task Managers - Keep todo lists visible
• Note-taking Apps - Quick access to notes
• Reference Materials - PDFs and web pages accessible
• Communication - Controlled access to messages

Academic Software

• IDEs and Editors - Enhanced coding focus
• Research Tools - Zotero, Mendeley integration
• Writing Software - LaTeX, Word, Google Docs
• Design Applications - Photoshop, Figma, Sketch

Customization for Different Tasks

Programming Setup

Configuration:
- High dimming for file browsers
- Medium dimming for terminal
- Light dimming for documentation
- No dimming for debugger

Writing Setup

Configuration:
- Strong dimming for all apps
- Exception for word processor
- Keep dictionary accessible
- Maintain research browser tab

Design Work

Configuration:
- Dim system apps heavily
- Light dimming for design tools
- Keep color picker visible
- Preserve asset libraries

Productivity Benefits

Psychological Focus

• Reduced Cognitive Load - Fewer visual distractions
• Improved Concentration - Clear task prioritization
• Better Flow State - Sustained attention periods
• Less Context Switching - Visual cues for current task

Academic Performance

• Higher Quality Work - Increased attention to detail
• Faster Completion - Reduced distraction time
• Better Retention - Improved focus during learning
• Consistent Habits - Visual environment consistency

Technical Requirements

System Requirements

• macOS 10.12 or later
• 5 MB disk space
• Minimal RAM usage
• No special permissions required

Performance Impact

• Negligible CPU usage
• Low memory footprint
• No network access required
• Battery friendly operation

Accessibility Features

Visual Accommodations

• Color Blind Support - Customizable dimming colors
• High Contrast options available
• Brightness Adaptation - Automatic adjustment
• Screen Reader compatibility

Motor Accommodations

• Keyboard Shortcuts - Full keyboard control
• Mouse Alternatives - Switch and joystick support
• Voice Control - macOS accessibility integration
• Touch Bar support for MacBook Pro

Alternatives and Comparisons

Similar Tools

• Focus - More complex with website blocking
• Cold Turkey - Cross-platform but more aggressive
• SelfControl - Free but limited features
• Freedom - Subscription-based with more features

Why Choose HazeOver

• Simplicity - One clear function, well executed
• Native - Built specifically for macOS
• Lightweight - Minimal system impact
• Affordable - Free with student pack

Support and Help

Getting Assistance

• HazeOver Support - Email support from developers
• User Guide - Comprehensive documentation
• FAQ - Common questions and solutions
• GitHub Education Support - For Student Pack issues

Common Issues

• Permission Problems - macOS security settings
• Performance - Optimizing for older Macs
• Multiple Monitors - Configuration for complex setups
• App Conflicts - Compatibility with other utilities

This simple but effective tool can significantly improve focus and productivity during study sessions and academic work on Mac computers.