Bento Focus: ADHD Focus Timer

What it does

Bento Focus is a productivity app specifically designed to help users with ADHD and neurodivergent brains manage tasks and maintain focus. It combines a flexible focus timer with a unique task management system built around a 'bento box' metaphor. The app helps users break down large, overwhelming projects into three small, actionable steps. It also provides pre-built routines to help users build momentum and offers detailed analytics to track focus patterns over time.

Where it shines

The app's core strength lies in its thoughtful design tailored to its target audience. The '3 Task Focus Box' concept, introduced during the tour at 01:54, is a brilliant visual and psychological tool. It transforms an endless to-do list into a finite, achievable goal, directly addressing executive dysfunction. Another highlight is the post-session feedback screen (03:13). Instead of just ending the timer, Bento provides a 'Focus Score' and personalized insights, turning each session into a learning opportunity. Finally, the 'Routines' feature (05:07) offers pre-packaged sets of actions like the 'Dopamine Kickstart' to help users overcome task paralysis and start their day with momentum.

UX highlights

Cohesive Theming: The app maintains a calm, focused aesthetic with its 'Twilight Falls' theme, which can be changed in the settings (06:43) to match different moods.
Guided Onboarding Tour: After the initial setup, a quick, seven-step tour (starting at 01:50) efficiently explains the core concepts of the timer, focus box, and routines.
Actionable Analytics: The 'Insights' tab (03:34) provides clear data visualizations, including focus scores and session breakdowns, helping users understand their own work patterns.
AI-Powered Suggestions: The app proactively suggests tasks like 'Evening reflection' (04:03), reducing the cognitive load required to start planning.
Gamified Achievements: An 'Awards' section (03:41) tracks progress toward goals like 'Task Starter' and 'Focus Champion,' adding a layer of motivation.

Monetization & growth

Bento presents its subscription offer as the final step of the onboarding process at 01:25. It's a soft paywall offering a 3-day free trial for its premium features. The screen clearly lists the benefits unlocked by subscribing, such as ADHD insights, custom routines, and advanced analytics. Two plans are offered: monthly and yearly, with the yearly option prominently displaying a 'Save 58%' badge to encourage a longer-term commitment. The purchase is handled through the standard App Store flow, which appears after the user taps 'Start My Free Trial'.

Who it’s for

The app is explicitly built for individuals with ADHD or other neurodivergent conditions who find traditional productivity systems overwhelming. Its features are designed to help with common challenges like task initiation, cognitive overload, and time blindness. It's ideal for students, professionals, and anyone looking for a more structured, gentle, and less intimidating approach to managing their daily tasks and focus.

Notes & opportunities

While the onboarding quiz is excellent for personalization, the app forces users to create an account at 00:56 before they can experience any of the core features. Allowing users to try a single focus session before signing up could reduce initial friction. Additionally, the app asks for an App Store rating very early in the flow (00:11), which may feel premature for users who haven't yet seen the app's value. The core loop, however, is strong and well-considered for its intended audience.