How to use Apple Focus filters

Focus mode is a feature on Apple devices that lets you customize notifications to avoid distractions when you’re focusing.

Focus filters allow you to customize your apps to respond to your selected focus. For example, filtering email in Apple Mail, or switching profiles in Safari.

Add a focus filter in macOS Sonoma and iOS 17

1. Under System Settings -> Focus, select the focus you want to add a filter to.
2. Under Focus Filters, select Add Filter. You can see the apps that support focus filters, and what they’ll let you control.
3. Select an app, and choose how you want it to behave in this focus.
4. Select Add.

Now, when you switch focus, the app immediately filters out the information you chose.

My favorite focus filters

I’m still discover new focus filters for the apps I use. Here, I’ll list the focus filters I’ve found useful.

I’m mainly using the Work and Personal focuses.

• Fantastical: Filters calendar sets to avoid getting distracted with personal events while I’m working.
• Apple Mail: During work, I’d only like to see emails from my Google account.
• Safari: I separate work and personal tabs and bookmarks using profiles. The focus filter helps me open links in the correct profile.