# Sonic Focus

> Bilateral sound stimulation app for anxiety reduction and relaxation. (iPhone/iPad app by Brian Hansen.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sonic-focus/id886227522 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Brian Hansen](https://appshunter.io/developer/886227525)
- Category: Health & Fitness, Medical
- Price: $1.99
- Rating: 4.50/5 from 10 App Store ratings · 7 written reviews indexed
- Age rating: 12+
- Requires: iOS 9.3 · 27 MB
- Released: 2014-06-12
- Data updated: 2026-06-10
- Monetization: paid
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sonic-focus/id886227522/reviews.md

## What is Sonic Focus?

Sonic Focus will help you dispel racing thoughts and enjoy deep relaxation with the aid of bilateral sound stimulation. This type of stimulation is clinically known as Bilateral Sound Desensitization and Reprocessing (BSDR) and is inspired by Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Research has shown that these techniques are highly effective in reducing numerous forms of anxiety. This app will be a worthy tool in helping you to relax and subdue your stress levels.

The power of this app lies in the sound. You may select from three different bilateral pulses, where you can set a comfortable rate for each pulse. Each pulse can be custom combined with any of three different ambient sounds. The ambient sounds and bilateral pulsing are musically tuned to enhance the relaxing experience. In addition, the ambient sonorities utilize generative music techniques, so the sound and experience is always fresh - no stale repetition of loops! 

This app features:
- Ability to select three different pulse sounds and set a comfortable pulse rate.
- Utilize any of three different ambient sonorities in combination with the bilateral pulse.
- Select a timer setting of 5, 10, 20, or 40 minutes.
- Innovative generative sound design.

## Key features

- Bilateral sound stimulation
- Customizable pulse rates
- Ambient sound combinations
- Generative music design
- Adjustable timer settings

## Recent user reviews (7 of 7)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sonic-focus/id886227522/reviews.md

### 2/5 — Latest version problems

*2019-06-05, version 2.0.0*

The rate varies randomly, and the controls are counter-intuitive. Current version is thus unpleasant to use.

### 3/5 — Great idea. Needs work.

*2018-09-20, version 2.0.0*

The slider for rate volume and mix are counter intuitive. Opposite of what they should be. 

The rate is inconsistent. Not the same interval left to right. I find this distracting.

### 3/5 — A lifesaver!

*2016-01-14, version 1*

Great app for relaxation, focus or when feeling overwhelmed. Can play music (i.e. iTunes, Pandora) or watch videos with it in the background too.

### 5/5 — Perfectly Simple

*2015-04-07, version 1*

Have become very tired of my biolateral CDs. This is a great, customizable tool. After 30 seconds exploring the simple sound choices I had a perfect, non-loopy soundscape.

### 5/5 — Excellent

*2014-11-16, version 1*

This app is great. It has the features you need and no extra junk. Love it and use it often!

### 5/5 — Great relaxation app!

*2014-07-02, version 1*

Really helps calm the brain before bed. I listen to it for 20 minutes while I read.

### 5/5 — Works great!

*2014-06-16, version 1*

This app is a great way to quiet my thoughts down when I lay down at night. It works best with headphones, as the pulsing sound goes from one ear to the other, which seems to help me focus. I love that you can customize which sounds you want to have, and the balance of the pulse to the ambient sounds. Yet it's simple enough to quickly pick your settings. BEST OF ALL- no cheesy looped sounds like most relaxation apps I've tried!

## Frequently asked questions about Sonic Focus

### What is Sonic Focus?

Sonic Focus is a health and fitness app that uses bilateral sound stimulation, inspired by EMDR techniques, to help users reduce anxiety and achieve deep relaxation. It offers customizable sound options and generative music for a unique experience.

### How does Sonic Focus help with anxiety?

The app utilizes Bilateral Sound Desensitization and Reprocessing (BSDR), a technique clinically shown to be effective in reducing various forms of anxiety. By listening to specific sound patterns, users can experience reduced stress levels.

### Can I customize the sounds in Sonic Focus?

Yes, you can select from three different bilateral pulse sounds and set a comfortable rate for each. These pulses can be combined with any of three ambient sounds, all musically tuned for a relaxing experience.

### What timer options are available in Sonic Focus?

Sonic Focus offers several timer settings to suit your needs, including 5, 10, 20, and 40-minute sessions. This allows for flexible use depending on the desired duration of relaxation.

### Is Sonic Focus available on multiple devices?

Sonic Focus is supported on iPhone, iPad, and iPod devices. This broad compatibility ensures accessibility for a wide range of Apple users.

### How often is Sonic Focus updated?

The latest version of Sonic Focus is 2.0.0, which was last updated on August 25, 2017. While not frequently updated recently, the app provides a stable experience based on its established features.

### What is the price of Sonic Focus?

Sonic Focus is a paid application priced at $1.99. This one-time purchase grants access to all its features for anxiety relief and relaxation.

### What is the age rating for Sonic Focus?

Sonic Focus has an age rating of 12+. This indicates that the content is generally suitable for users aged 12 and older.

## Version history (last 2 releases)

### 2.0.0 — 2017-08-25

This app has been updated by Apple to display the Apple Watch app icon.

- Compatible with iOS 11 64 bit operating system.
- revision of button and slider graphics on user interface

### 1 — 2014-06-11

No release notes.

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-10.*
