Monocle is a focus utility for macOS that dims everything except the window currently in use. It keeps apps and windows open, but lowers their visual presence so a crowded desktop becomes easier to work in without manually hiding or rearranging it.

Activate the effect with its gesture, work in the active window, and move the cursor when you need to reveal the rest of the screen. This is useful for writing, browsing, reading, and any task where peripheral windows create visual distraction even when they are not actively demanding attention.

Monocle does not block applications or manage tasks. It is a visual boundary, so it suits people who want the context available but quieter, and it can be combined with a timer or blocker when the issue is more than a crowded screen.

Features

Dim inactive windows while keeping them open and unchanged.
Use a mouse-shake activation gesture and cursor reveal effect to switch attention quickly.
Work with Stage Manager and app groups according to the current release.
Keep a lightweight focus overlay instead of closing windows or changing a workspace layout.

Where it fits

Monocle fits people whose desktop becomes visually noisy while they still need several apps open. It is an especially good companion for writing, research, and focused browsing.

It will not prevent a distracting site or app from being opened. Use a true blocker for access restrictions, and consider reduced-motion or accessibility preferences before relying on cursor-triggered effects.

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Features

Where it fits

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