Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about ZenWall

What is ZenWall?

ZenWall is a productivity app for iOS that helps you maintain focus by blocking your phone screen during designated focus sessions. Unlike other focus apps that simply hide content, ZenWall adds intentional friction to the unlock process, making you think twice before breaking your concentration.

How does the unlock mechanism work?

When you want to unlock during a focus session, you'll need to enter a sequence of random numbers displayed one at a time. The default sequence is 10 digits, but you can configure this from 5 to 30 digits in settings. This creates enough friction to discourage casual phone checking while still allowing access when you genuinely need it.

What happens if I make a mistake during unlock?

If you press the wrong number, the unlock attempt fails. However, you earn "partial unlock" time based on how many correct digits you entered. Each correct digit gives you 1 minute of unlocked access. For example, if you get 4 digits correct before making a mistake, you'll have 4 minutes of unlocked time before the screen automatically re-locks.

Can I still receive important calls and messages?

Yes! ZenWall lets you create whitelists for both contacts and apps. Calls and messages from whitelisted contacts will come through even during focus sessions. You can also enable "repeated calls" to allow any caller through if they call twice within 3 minutes. Emergency alerts (government alerts, Amber alerts) are never blocked.

Can I make emergency calls during a focus session?

Yes, absolutely. iOS Emergency SOS functionality is always available regardless of ZenWall's state. Your safety is never compromised. Additionally, the unlock mechanism is always completable, so you can always access your phone when truly needed.

What types of focus sessions can I create?

ZenWall offers three session types: Timed Sessions (set a duration like 25 minutes or 2 hours), Until Time (set an end time like "until 5:00 PM"), and Indefinite (no automatic end, must be manually unlocked). You can also use the built-in Pomodoro timer for automatic work/break cycling.

How does the Pomodoro mode work?

ZenWall's Pomodoro mode follows the classic technique: 25-minute work sessions followed by 5-minute breaks, with a longer 15-minute break after 4 sessions. During work sessions, your screen is blocked. During breaks, it automatically unlocks. All durations are customizable in settings. The app tracks your completed Pomodoros and maintains streak statistics.

What happens if I restart my phone during a session?

ZenWall saves your session state, so if your phone restarts (due to an update, battery dying, or manual restart), your focus session will resume when the phone turns back on. Your progress is never lost.

Can I start focus sessions from my home screen?

Yes! ZenWall includes widgets for your home screen and lock screen. The small widget lets you start your default session with one tap. The medium widget shows multiple preset durations (like 25min, 1hr, 2hr) that you can customize. Starting from a widget requires no confirmation for quick activation.

Does ZenWall work with iOS Focus modes?

Yes, ZenWall integrates with iOS Focus modes to sync notification filtering. When you start a ZenWall session, it can automatically activate a corresponding iOS Focus mode, giving you system-level notification management alongside ZenWall's screen blocking.

Will force-quitting the app end my session?

No. ZenWall uses iOS Screen Time APIs to maintain screen blocking even if the app is force-quit. Your focus session persists until the timer expires or you complete the unlock sequence.

What permissions does ZenWall need?

ZenWall requires Screen Time/Family Controls access to block your screen. Notification permission is needed for session alerts. Contacts access is optional and only required if you want to whitelist specific contacts. Focus Mode access is optional for iOS Focus integration.

Is my data private?

Yes. ZenWall stores all your data (settings, statistics, whitelists) locally on your device. We don't require an account, and we don't transmit your personal data to our servers. If you enable iCloud sync, your data syncs through Apple's secure infrastructure. See our Privacy Policy for details.

Can I customize the unlock sequence length?

Yes. In settings, you can adjust the sequence length from 5 to 30 digits. Shorter sequences mean easier (but still friction-filled) unlocking, while longer sequences create more significant barriers. The default is 10 digits, which takes about 10-15 seconds to complete.

Is ZenWall free?

ZenWall offers core functionality for free. Premium features may be available through in-app purchase or subscription. Check the App Store listing for current pricing details.

How do I contact support?

For support inquiries, please email us at piotr@gebski.cloud. We typically respond within 24-48 hours.