App Showcase: Focos
App info
- App name: Focos
- Onboarding steps: 6
- Paywall type: Free Trial - Soft Paywall
- Monthly installs: 15,000
- Monthly revenue: $45,000
- App category: photo and video
What it does
Focos is a powerful photo editing app that goes far beyond standard filters and adjustments. Its core purpose is to give mobile photographers the tools to mimic the sophisticated depth-of-field effects typically associated with high-end DSLR cameras. Users can take any portrait photo and retroactively change the focus point, adjust the background blur (bokeh), and even relight the scene in a simulated 3D space.
Where it shines
The app's standout feature is its handling of depth data. At 01:56, the user flips the image into a 3D view, revealing a point-cloud model of the subject. This visualization is not just for show; it's the foundation for precise edits. The granular control over the bokeh shape (01:48), which lets you change out-of-focus highlights from circles to triangles, is a fantastic touch for photography enthusiasts. The ability to save a copy, overwrite, or export as a portrait file (04:10) provides flexible workflow options for different user needs.
UX highlights
- Tangible Controls: Instead of abstract sliders, Focos uses familiar photography concepts. The 'Aperture' tool (01:14) provides an immediate mental model for users familiar with cameras.
- Direct Manipulation: The 3D view (02:04) allows users to directly rotate and inspect the depth map, offering a powerful and intuitive way to understand how edits will be applied.
- Organized Tooling: The main editing tools are neatly organized in a left-hand sidebar, with specific controls appearing at the bottom. This keeps the interface clean while providing quick access to deep functionality.
- Before/After Previews: The onboarding carousel (00:08) effectively uses before-and-after sliders to instantly communicate the app's value.
- Smart Saving Options: The export sheet (04:10) gives clear choices, explaining what each option like 'Save Copy' or 'Overwrite Original' does. This respects the user's original photos.
Monetization & growth
Focos presents its subscription model during onboarding, right after demonstrating its key features and showing social proof. At 00:28, a paywall appears offering a weekly or yearly plan, with a prominent option to 'Enable Free Trial'. The user is required to subscribe to proceed to the main editor. The pricing is clearly displayed, and the free trial is positioned as a no-risk way to get started. After subscribing, the app cleverly uses a notification warm-up screen (00:50) framed as a reminder for when the trial is about to end, a smart tactic to increase opt-ins.
Who it’s for
This app is clearly aimed at serious mobile photographers and enthusiasts who want more creative control than standard phone cameras offer. It’s for users who understand or want to learn about concepts like aperture, bokeh, and lighting. While a casual user could apply a quick preset, the true power of the app is for those who enjoy fine-tuning their images to achieve a specific, professional look.
Notes & opportunities
The editing experience is deep, but could be intimidating for newcomers. The initial tool selection doesn't offer much guidance on where to start. A short, interactive tutorial on the first edit could help users discover the most powerful features, like the 3D map or depth filters. Additionally, while the patch tool is available (03:11), its function isn't immediately obvious and could benefit from a tooltip or brief explanation on first use.