Last updated · June 2026
Eyedle is a calm menu bar timer that reminds you to rest your eyes. For anything not covered here, email parham.karbasi78@gmail.com and I'll get back to you.
How does Eyedle work?
Eyedle sits in your menu bar and counts down your work interval. When it's time, it gently asks you to look away for a short break — by default, every 20 minutes it suggests a 20-second pause, following the 20-20-20 guideline: every 20 minutes, look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
How do I start, pause, or skip a break?
Click the eye icon in the menu bar to open Eyedle. From there you can start or pause the timer, reset it, or jump straight to a break with "Break now". Every break is always skippable — press Skip, Escape, or Return.
Can I change how often breaks happen?
Yes. Open Settings and pick a rhythm: the default 20-20-20, Pomodoro (25/5), or Deep Focus (50/10) — or set your own work and break durations.
Can I use a notification instead of the full-screen break?
Yes. In Settings, switch the break style from the gentle full-screen overlay to notification-only. If you pick notifications, Eyedle asks your permission once.
Will Eyedle start automatically with my Mac?
If you turn on "Launch at login" — offered during setup and available in Settings — Eyedle starts quietly with your Mac and waits in the menu bar. macOS may ask you to approve it as a login item the first time.
Does it interrupt me when I step away or join a meeting?
No. Eyedle automatically pauses when you're away (no input for a couple of minutes) and when your Mac sleeps or locks, then picks up when you return. If your Mac was asleep longer than a break, it assumes your eyes already rested and simply starts a fresh interval.
Does Eyedle need special permissions or my data?
No. It detects only idle time — never what you type or click — runs entirely on your Mac, and makes no network connections. The single optional permission is notifications, and only if you choose notification-style breaks. See the privacy policy at /legal/eyedle/privacy.
Is Eyedle a medical treatment for my eyes?
No. Eyedle is a habit tool. Taking regular breaks can ease the symptoms of digital eye strain while you use them, but Eyedle isn't a medical device. If discomfort persists, see an eye-care professional.
Contact
Questions, bugs, or ideas? Email parham.karbasi78@gmail.com and I'll get back to you.