Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about AutoBlink.
Is a camera necessary for AutoBlink to function?
Yes, AutoBlink relies on a camera to monitor your blinking patterns. The app uses this data to ensure you are blinking sufficiently, which is crucial for its functionality.
How does AutoBlink protect my privacy when using the camera?
AutoBlink is designed with privacy as a top priority. The app operates completely offline, which means all camera data processing happens locally on your device. No video data or personal information is ever stored, transmitted, or shared with any external servers or third parties.
Can AutoBlink record or store my camera feed?
No, AutoBlink does not record, store, or save any camera data. The app only processes the camera feed in real-time to detect blinks, and this data is immediately discarded. We have intentionally designed the app this way to ensure maximum privacy and security.
How does AutoBlink prevent dry eyes during computer use?
Frequent blinking is vital for preventing dry eyes, a common issue during extended screen time. AutoBlink encourages you to blink more often and consciously, helping to naturally moisturize your eyes and over time, trains your brain to increase your blink rate subconsciously.
What is the optimal blink rate to prevent dry eyes?
Health experts recommend an optimal blink rate of 15 to 20 blinks per minute to maintain adequate eye moisture and prevent dry eyes. AutoBlink helps you achieve this by reminding you to blink at regular intervals, which is especially useful during prolonged computer use.
Can increasing my blink rate improve eye health?
Yes, increasing your blink rate can significantly improve your eye health, especially for conditions like Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Regular blinking helps express oils from the meibomian glands and distributes tears evenly across your eyes, preventing dryness and irritation. While conditions like MGD aren't caused by screens, reduced blinking during computer use can worsen symptoms. AutoBlink encourages a healthy blink rate, which can help manage MGD symptoms and reduce the risk of dry eyes and other related eye conditions.
What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and how can AutoBlink help?
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is a common condition where the oil-producing glands in your eyelids become blocked or don't function properly. While MGD isn't caused by digital devices, reduced blinking during screen time can worsen symptoms because blinking helps express oils from these glands. AutoBlink helps by reminding you to blink regularly, which can help maintain proper meibomian gland function and reduce symptom severity. If you have MGD, combining AutoBlink's blink training with your doctor's recommended treatment plan can help manage your condition better.
Why does AutoBlink show my blink rate as "Exceeds Target"?
If your blink rate exceeds 30 blinks per minute, AutoBlink may not always distinguish between actual blinks and other facial movements such as looking downwards. For optimal tracking, ensure you are in a well-lit environment and facing the camera directly with good posture.
Can I use AutoBlink without an internet connection?
Absolutely, AutoBlink is designed to function entirely offline. This ensures you can improve your eye health and manage your blink rate without relying on an internet connection, providing flexibility and security.
Why doesn't AutoBlink display the overlay when my screen is in full-screen mode?
AutoBlink is designed to comply with macOS operational guidelines, which prioritize user experience and security. In full-screen mode, macOS restricts overlays from third-party apps to ensure that the full-screen application has control over the user interface. This policy helps maintain a clean and uninterrupted visual experience while using full-screen applications. As a result, AutoBlink's overlay will not appear over apps in full-screen mode but will resume once the screen returns to a windowed view.
How can I monitor my blink rate with AutoBlink?
AutoBlink uses your Mac's camera to monitor your blink rate in real time. By setting your desired blink interval in the app, you can ensure that you are blinking frequently enough to keep your eyes moist and healthy, which is particularly important during screen use.
What are the signs of insufficient blinking?
Signs of insufficient blinking include dryness, redness, blurred vision, and discomfort in the eyes, especially when using digital devices. AutoBlink helps address these symptoms by providing timely reminders to blink, thus protecting your eyes during extended screen time.
How does AutoBlink integrate into a healthy screen-time routine?
AutoBlink seamlessly integrates into your screen-time routine by offering customizable reminders to blink at regular intervals. It promotes a healthy digital lifestyle by ensuring that you maintain a good blink rate, which is crucial for preventing eye strain and dry eye syndrome.
Is AutoBlink available for iOS devices like the iPhone or iPad?
Currently, AutoBlink is exclusively developed for macOS. This focus allows us to optimize the application's functionality and user experience on Mac computers.