Apple’s Background Sounds is an feature available on iPhones, iPads and Apple desktops running iOS 15 or later. It’s designed to help users stay focused, calm, and centered—whether you’re studying, relaxing, or managing sensory input.
Here are a few reasons why experimenting with this feature can be valuable for focus, accessibility, and emotional well-being.
Enhance Focus and Productivity
Background sounds such as rain, ocean, or white noise can help mask distractions. This steady, neutral noise creates a consistent sound environment that supports concentration—especially useful when studying, writing, or working in noisy spaces.
You can even set a timer and use it as part of a Pomodoro-style focus routine to maintain productivity throughout the day.
Promote Relaxation and Sleep
Background sounds can serve as calming auditory anchors, helping you unwind and fall asleep more easily. For those who find silence unsettling or are sensitive to ambient noise, these gentle sounds can smooth the transition to rest.
Support Accessibility and Neurodiversity
This feature can be especially helpful for users who:
- Live with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing differences (to maintain focus or regulate sensory input)
- Experience tinnitus, using steady sounds to mask ringing in the ears
- Manage anxiety, benefiting from predictable and soothing auditory stimulation
Personalize Your Sound Environment
You can tailor the type of sound—such as rain, stream, or balanced noise—and adjust the volume to fit your environment. You can also decide whether sounds continue during media playback or when your device is locked.
Because it’s built directly into iOS, Background Sounds:
- Work offline
- Integrate with Control Center and Accessibility settings
- Don’t interrupt calls or alerts
It’s an easy way to customize your sensory environment without needing extra apps.
Android Alternatives
If you’re an Android user, there are a few ways to achieve similar results:
Google Assistant Voice Commands
Say:
- “Hey Google, play white noise,” or
- “Hey Google, play ocean sounds.”
Third-Party Apps
The Google Play Store offers many apps for ambient and background noise, often with additional features and sound libraries
Sound Amplifier
On Pixel phones and some other Android devices, the Sound Amplifier accessibility feature can reduce background noise or enhance quiet sounds in your environment.
How to enable Background Sounds
Visit our knowledge base for step by step instructions on how to set up Background Sounds.
🎵 Final Thoughts
Apple’s Background Sounds feature is more than just ambient noise—it’s a practical tool for improving focus, enhancing relaxation, and supporting accessibility needs. Whether you’re looking to stay productive or create a calmer atmosphere, it’s worth exploring how this simple feature can make your daily life more peaceful and balanced.