MonitorOff is a free open source software that helps reduce eye strain by reminding you to look away from your computer screen periodically. It runs in the system tray and pops up notifications to take short breaks.
MonitorOff is a free and open source software application designed to improve eye health and reduce digital eye strain. It works by regularly reminding computer users to take short breaks away from the screen in order to prevent issues associated with prolonged screen time.
When installed, MonitorOff runs minimized in the system tray. At intervals which can be configured by the user, MonitorOff will pop up a small notification prompting you to look away from the screen. Break reminders can be set to occur as often as every 5 minutes. The notification shows an icon of an eye, along with text reading "Look away from the screen" or "Blink frequently."
Users can configure the length of time the notification displays before disappearing automatically. Options range from 5 seconds up to 1 minute. There are also settings to control whether or not the break reminder makes a sound when it appears.
MonitorOff is available for Windows and Linux operating systems. It is published under the GNU General Public License, making it free open source software. The code is available for review and contribution on GitHub.
Overall, MonitorOff provides a simple but effective solution to prevent eye strain for computer users. By gently reminding you to take regular short breaks, it can help combat headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision, and other symptoms associated with excessive screen time.