Body doubling, without strangers
Someone beside you who notices when your attention drifts.
Knodl is a free body doubling web app: it stays with you while you work, notices when you drift and walks you back. No account, no video calls, no scores.
You're on your phone: Knodl's detection works on your computer (Chrome or Edge). Take the link with you and try it there.
Another way to work alongside someone
Body doubling works because someone is there. Knodl is there without you having to show yourself to anyone.
| Knodl | Video call with strangers | Timer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| When you start | Whenever you want | At booked times | Whenever you want |
| Who sees you | Nobody | Another person, on video | Nobody |
| When your attention drifts | Knodl notices | Depends on the other person | Nobody notices |
| To come back | A short guided pause | Up to you | Up to you |
| Who keeps you company | Knodl, on your screen | A real person | Nobody |
| Cost | Free, no account | Account; limited free or paid | Free |
Why it works
Notices without watching
Knodl reads your gaze, posture and tiredness as points, inside your browser. It never sees your screen or what you type.
Grounded techniques, not alarms
When your attention drifts, it offers a short pause based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness: breathing, 5-4-3-2-1 grounding, movement. Not a timer going off.
Zero guilt
No scores, no streaks to break. Drifting is not failing: what matters is coming back.
The camera is processed on your device: no image leaves it or gets stored. You can check it yourself in your browser's Network tab. See the technical detail
Frequently asked questions
What is body doubling and why does it help you focus?
Body doubling means working with someone present to keep your attention on a task. It is a widely used strategy among people with ADHD. Knodl acts as that companion: it stays with you while you work, notices when your attention drifts and walks you back, without judgment.
Does Knodl record or store my camera?
No. Processing happens locally on your device and the images are discarded instantly. Nothing is stored or sent to the internet.
How is it different from Focusmate?
Focusmate pairs you on video with another person at booked times. Knodl uses no video calls: it is there as soon as you open it, nobody sees you, and it notices when your attention drifts. If a real person helps you, Focusmate is a good choice; if you would rather not be seen, Knodl is yours.
Do I need to create an account or download anything?
No. Knodl runs in your browser, free and with no sign-up.
Does it work on my phone?
Not yet. Knodl works on computers with a webcam, in Chrome or Edge. From your phone you can send yourself the link to open it there.
What happens when I get up from my desk?
Knodl marks it as “you stepped away” on your timeline and that time does not count toward your session. When you come back, it is still with you.
How is it different from a normal pomodoro timer?
A timer only measures time. Knodl also notices, through the camera and on your device, when your attention drifts, and helps you come back with no scores and no guilt.
Does Knodl replace ADHD treatment?
No. It's a focus companion, not a treatment or a replacement for professional therapy.