Support

Overtone is an interval timer for iPhone that plays beeps over whatever music you're already listening to, with the screen locked and the phone in your pocket.

Set up a simple timer or rounds of work and rest, press Start, and let the cues guide you.

Getting started

1. Pick a mode. Simple runs for a total time and beeps every N seconds. Rounds alternates work and rest intervals for a number of rounds, with optional warm-up and cool-down.
2. Choose your cues. Pick a built-in sound or record your own. Optionally turn on the 3-2-1 countdown ticks and the 5-second get-ready lead-in.
3. Start your music and press Start. Lock the phone and go. Use Pause, Skip, and Extend from the app or the lock screen Live Activity.

Questions

Does Overtone pause or quieten my music?

No. Overtone mixes its cues on top of your music and never ducks (lowers) it. Music from Apple Music, Spotify, podcasts, or any other app keeps playing at full volume.

Does it work with the screen locked?

Yes. Cues keep playing with the screen off or the phone in your pocket, and a Live Activity on the lock screen shows the running timer.

Why don't I feel a vibration in my pocket?

iOS only lets apps play haptics while they are on screen. Overtone vibrates when the app is open and visible, but once the screen locks the sound cues are what carry you through. This is an iOS limitation, not a setting.

What does Extend do?

Extend adds time to the end of the timer: one extra minute in Simple mode or one extra round in Rounds mode. It never changes the interval you're currently in.

Why do I hear a sound before the first interval?

That's the optional 5-second get-ready lead-in. It has its own sound so you can put the phone away before the first interval begins. Turn it off in settings if you'd rather start immediately.

How do I record my own cue sound?

In the sound picker, choose Record your own. Overtone will ask for microphone permission the first time. Recordings are stored only on your device and can be deleted from the same screen.

What's the free trial, and what does the unlock cost?

The 30-day Trial is free and gives you the full app. After that, the Full Unlock is a one-time purchase of US$0.99 (or the equivalent in your local currency). There are no subscriptions.

How do I restore my purchase on a new phone?

Sign in to the App Store with the same Apple Account you used to buy Overtone, then tap Restore Purchases at the bottom of Overtone's main screen (it is also on the unlock screen). Apple will restore the Full Unlock at no charge.

Does it work with the mute switch on?

Yes. Overtone uses the playback audio category, the same one music apps use, so its cues (and your music) keep playing even when the ring/silent switch is set to silent.

What does Overtone require?

An iPhone running iOS 17 or later. No account, no internet connection, and no other apps are needed.