Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions about Focusmate, answered.
Focusmate is for anyone who wants to get things done.
As long as you stay on camera, you can use Focusmate for most kinds of work: desk work, cleaning, cooking, art, music, writing, reading, even at-home exercise! The main thing is to set up your camera so that your partner can see you while you focus on your task(s).
Focusmate will pair you with a member of our community — someone else somewhere in the world that’s also trying to get something done. If you enjoyed working with someone, you can Favorite them by tapping the star next to their name. Learn more about Favorite Partners
Yes! Focusmate is completely free for up to three sessions per week. You do not need a credit card or other payment information to start using Focusmate.
If you need more sessions, you can upgrade to Focusmate Plus anytime for unlimited sessions. It’s just $6.99 a month (billed yearly) or $9.99 a month (billed monthly).
Most users say their partner didn’t feel like a stranger once the session got started. Also keep in mind, you aren’t “hanging out” or collaborating with your partner; you say hello at the beginning, declare your tasks, and say goodbye at the end.
It is natural to feel nervous, but our community is supportive and kind. We encourage you to give it a try with a 25-minute session.
Yes, please keep your video on throughout the session and make sure you’re visible in the frame. If you’re doing something that involves moving around (like cooking or exercising), set up your camera so that your partner can see you while you focus on your task(s). If you must step away, please let your partner know in the chat and be back as soon as possible, while keeping your video on.
No, you don’t have to. While many users prefer to have their partner’s and their own mic muted, some find that hearing their partner working boosts their productivity and makes them more accountable.
If you are watching a video, listening to music, or making a phone call, etc., please do mute yourself so as not to disturb your partner.
You don’t need to download another app. You book and join sessions on Focusmate. We’ll also send you calendar invites so your Focusmate sessions appear on your calendar.
All you need is a computer or mobile device with a camera and microphone, and an internet connection.
A camera is necessary to use Focusmate.
We implement a variety of security measures to maintain the safety of your personal information. We do not sell, trade, or otherwise transfer to outside parties your personally identifiable information. We do not record sessions. For more information, visit our privacy policy page.
Our Community Guidelines lay out the behavior we expect from all members. If you have any questions, just reach out and we’ll be happy to help.
Focusmate offers three session duration options: 25, 50, and 75 minutes.
Over 99% of bookings get matched with a partner. On the rare occasion that you do not receive one, you can book a session at the next time slot, 15 minutes later.
Accountability is enforced by Focusmate and its community members. If you’re late or don’t show, Focusmate can detect it and your timeliness score will be reduced, and your account can also be frozen. If your partner goofs off during the session, you can report it using the reporting button on the appointment card in your dashboard.
No. Talking with your partner is only allowed at the beginning and end of your session. At the beginning, you’re encouraged to say hello to your partner and share what you plan to work on. At the end, you should check in and ask your partner how the session went. If you’d like to talk to your partner more, you can suggest or offer it at the end of your session. Please bear in mind, no selling or propositions (business or otherwise) are allowed during Focusmate sessions.
Yes. However, if you plan to listen to music or watch videos, make sure to mute your microphone.
We don’t currently have an app but you can create an app-like experience on your phone or tablet by adding Focusmate to your home screen. Learn how you can do this here.
We’d love to hear your idea. Please submit a feature request here.
Focusmate is still in the early stages of development. If there’s a feature you want, there’s a good chance we plan to build it. In the meantime, we appreciate your patience.
Want to speed up the development process? Share Focusmate with your friends to help us grow faster, or contact us with your ideas.
Contact us here or go over to the Help Center.