What's New in this version
FAQ:
If the volume of other audio apps drops while using BrainWave, open BrainWave's General Settings by tapping the wrench-button on the main screen, then disable the Reduce Other App Volume option. More FAQs

Quick Notes:
  • Refer to Background Modes to learn how to use this app with other Audio Apps.
  • Tap "Email Support" at the bottom of the screen if you have any issues or questions.
  • Check the FAQ for answers to common questions.
  • Headphones/Earbuds must be worn for Binaural Tones to be effective.
  • Use the Gamma-40 Focus or Focused and Alert programs to target the 40 Hz gamma frequency. See Brainwave Frequencies for more information.
  • If the binaural programs stop prematurely please restart the device to refresh running application memory.
  • Apple Silicon: If you are using this app on an Apple Silicon Mac (Apple M processors) refer to the Apple Silicon section to learn how to listen alongside Apple Music.

Help Topics:
  1. Binaural Brainwave Entrainment
  2. Our Approach
  3. Program Stages
  4. What to Expect
  5. How to Use the App
  6. Other Options
  7. Brainwave Frequencies
  8. Program Descriptions
  9. Background Audio
  10. Alarm
  11. Screen Orientation
  12. Language Settings
  13. FAQ
  14. Contacting Us
  15. Notes
  16. More Apps
  17. Apple Family Share
  18. Apple Silicon Mac Support
  19. Spatial Audio
  20. Mindful Minutes / Health app
Warning: Do not use while driving, operating machinery, cycling or walking near traffic.
1. Binaural Brainwave Entrainment

This app uses advanced Binaural Brainwave Entrainment to stimulate brainwave frequencies associated with different states of mind. Brainwave frequencies are in most cases below the range of human hearing and therefore must be induced through the use of binaural tones, a technique where two different audible frequencies are played into each ear to induce an inaudible low frequency beat. Headphones or earbuds must be worn for this technique to be effective, as the left and right audio must each be isolated.

During the entrainment process two different carrier tones are played into the left and right ears. The frequency difference between these tones matches the brainwave frequency of the target state of mind. The user will hear these carrier tones as an audible tone, however, when processing these two different tones the human brain will perceive the small frequency difference between the tones as an inaudible periodic beat. When exposed to this beat the listener's brainwaves will begin to synchronize with the beat frequency. What allows the human brain to perceive this beat is our directional hearing system, located in the brain stem. The brain's directional hearing system calculates frequency shifts between sound entering the left and right ear to quickly locate the direction of the sound. This process is more effective in the presence of background noise or ambient sounds, which allows humans to hear and locate even subtle sounds, like an animal moving nearby in a forest that is filled with noise. It also allows humans to perceive the beat frequency produced by tuning forks when tuning piano keys.

As an example, the human ear can't directly perceive the .5 - 2 Hz Delta-wave frequencies associated with deep sleep because it is well below human hearing range, but if you wear headphones or earbuds with one side playing a 135 Hz tone and the other playing a 136 Hz tone your brain will perceive the 1 Hz difference between those frequencies as a periodic beat, in this case matching a low delta wave frequency associated with sleep. As you listen, your own brainwaves will begin to match that frequency. The process is the same for other states of mind and their associated brainwave frequencies.

To help make the process more effective and enjoyable ambient background sounds have been included in the app. The balance between the volume of the brainwave tones and the ambient background is also adjustable, allowing you to create the most relaxing and effective brainwave entrainment experience possible.

We have also included the ability for users to create a playlist of their own iTunes music to use as the background. Important note regarding iTunes Audio Volume: When using iTunes Music the Ambient Background volume slider dissappears because iTunes audio volume cannot be controlled independently of the device volume. The device volume is controlled with the physical volume control on the side of the device. Only audio bundled with the app can have its volume freely adjusted below the device volume.

Whether using the included Ambience or your own iTunes tracks the Brainwave tones only need to be audible to be effective. They don't have to be the dominant sound to be effective.
2. Our Approach

Our Brainwave Entrainment apps have been designed from the ground up to be the most advanced and effective binaural brainwave entrainment applications available. Every aspect of the audio design has been tuned to maximize the effectiveness of the brainwave entrainment programs. For example, the audible components of binaural tones have been designed to be close in frequency to the "Om" chant frequency, which is the sound made by Buddhist monks during meditation. This is known to be deeply relaxing and to enhance the mind's receptiveness to binaural tones, and the brainwave entrainment process.

This application also improves upon standard binaural techniques by overlaying multiple binaural tones to stimulate a range of brainwave frequencies simultaneously. In addition to these layers, we also use multi-stage programs to gently bring the user to the desired frequency in stages to create very specific states of mind. These techniques allow our applications to take the user through a series of stages that combine to create completely unique experiences.


3. Program Stages

Each program is composed of between 1 and 7 stages. Some programs do not require multiple stages in order to achieve the target mental state, while others require several stages.

On the iPhone or iPod Touch tapping on the Program Details button will display a description of the selected program, as well as the number of stages the selected program contains. This button is not present when the app is run on the iPad as the program details are always visible on that device.

As you change programs on the program selection dial you will notice a white bar above and below the duration selection buttons indicating the recommended minimum duration for the selected program. You will also see this duration shown in the program details described above. To play the program for the recommended duration tap the duration button highlighted by the two white bars. This will set the timer to that duration.

If you select a duration longer than recommended the app will automatically adjust each stage accordingly. If you select a shorter time the program may not be as effective.

You may find that the first stage of some programs can sound similar, this is because some programs require similar initial stages. For example, two programs may both begin with a relaxing Alpha/Theta wave stage first, before diverging and progressing into unique stages.

If the brainwave program you're using is composed of multiple stages you will hear each stage fade-out before the next stage fades-in. This is to prevent interference between consecutive stages. To adjust the duration of the audio volume fade tap the button to launch the General Settings dialog.

All program stages have been designed to use a closely matching carrier frequency, the "Om" frequency mentioned above, so as to avoid a startling difference between each stage. Other binaural applications use vastly different carrier waves for different types of binaural beats. When this is done though it is typically only for effect and can actually disturb the entrainment process. What matters is not the audible component of the carrier signal, but the inaudible difference between the frequencies being played into each ear. Therefore, we intentially try to keep the carrier waves within certain relaxing ranges to make the experience more comfortable for the user.
4. What to Expect

The instructions in this document detail how to use the app and explain the different settings and options that are available. It's important though to also understand what to expect when you press play and to know where to focus your mind to maximize the effectiveness of the brainwave entrainment process.

First, depending on how you've configured your volume settings you will hear two sounds after you've selected a program and pressed play. One is the background ambient audio and the other sound is the audible component of the brainwave signal, the binaural tones. The brainwave audio only needs to be audible to be effective.

If the program contains multiple stages you will hear each stage fade out before the next one fades in.

The brainwave entrainment process takes several minutes to take hold and is best achieved by not consciously "trying" to achieve the given state. It is more important to relax than to try to consciously focus your mind on the brainwave audio.
5. How to Use the App
5.1 Plug-in headphones or earbuds
A different tone will be played into each ear and it is essential that each ear only hear one side. Check that the physical volume controls on the device are adjusted to your comfort level and that the mute switch is not enabled.
5.2 Select a Program
Select a program based on your desired state of mind using the Program Selection Dial.
5.3 Select Listening Duration
Select from a preset duration on the duration control bar, or Set and Use a Custom Duration (This sets the value of the first button on the duration bar to your custom time so you can return to it later). The Minimum Recommended Duration for the Current Program is indicated on the Duration Control by the White Lines above and below the minimum duration. Due to the variations in the number and type of brainwave stages used in each program some will require a longer period of time in order for each sequence to have sufficient entrainment time.

If you select a duration longer than the minimum duration the program stages will be lengthened proportionally. You may also select a shorter than recommended duration, however the program may not be as effective.
Set custom duration
Preset Duration Buttons
Apply custom duration
Minimum duration
Selected duration
5.4 Set Ambient or iTunes Background
Tap to change the background audio or select your iTunes Music. In order to allow mixing iTunes Audio with Brainwave Audio this app is not able to support earbud remote controls or the iOS slide-up playback menu when using iTunes Music, so you must control playback (play, pause, stop) from within the app. This is a limitation iOS imposes when an app allows other apps or iTunes to play music simultaneously. Skipping iTunes tracks foward or back must also be done within the app and not with remotes or iOS controls. The brainwave entrainment process is equally effective with each of the background ambient sounds provided. When using Binaural Tones with the included Ambience remote controls can be used because all the audio is originating with our app.

Background Mode: Ambience
 
Ocean Waves
Background Mode: iTunes Music
Symphony No. 9
 
View Background Settings
iTunes Playback Controls
Background Mode: iTunes Music and Ambience
Symphony No. 9
Ocean Waves
iTunes Playback Controls
5.5.1 Adjust Balance in Ambience Background Mode

If you're using the included Ambience for the background audio you can adjust the volume balance between the brainwaves and the background audio to your comfort level using the Ambience and Balance balance controls. The overall volume of the combined audio is set using the device's physical volume controls. Your choice of volume balance won't alter the effectiveness of the entrainment process so long as the binaural carrier tones are audible. The binaural tones don't need to be the dominant sound to be effective.
Volume Balance Controls when using included Ambience
AMBIENCE
BRAINWAVES
Use volume sliders to control relative volume. Device volume controls overall volume
5.5.2 Adjust Balance in iTunes Mode

If you're using iTunes audio as the background it can only be played at the physical device volume, but you can still adjust the brainwave audio volume. iOS always links iTunes volume to the Device volume, and does not allow it to be played lower than the device volume.
Volume Balance Controls when using included iTunes Music
iTunes Music volume is always the same as the device volume so there is no background volume slider in this mode
BRAINWAVES
5.6 Press the play button to begin program

Play, Pause or Stop both the Selected Program and Selected Background together. When Play or Pause are pressed the Program Selection Dial will be disabled to avoid it being changed accidentally during the program. Pressing the Stop button reactivates the Program Selection Dial.
Play both selected Program and selected Background
Pause
Stop Program and Background
Pause and Stop also stops the Alarm if it is playing. Audio will continue to fade momentarily when you tap Pause or Stop. You can set whether to fade the audio down when you press stop or pause in the General Settings, . Note that iOS does not allow iTunes music to be faded.

Warning: Never listen while driving or operating machinery.

6. Other Options
Menu: Save Settings for Selected Program, View Details of Selected Program, Set Alarm Audio, Settings, View more Apps
Save settings and preferences for current program
General Settings - Options for wave volume, amplitude, and frequency.
Enable/Disable and Configure alarm audio
View details about the selected program
View more of our apps in the App Store
Save Settings and Preferences

Tapping the button opens the Save Settings and Preferences Menu. When the button appears with an arrow that means saved settings already exist for the selected program that you can load. The Allows you to save your current settings for the currently selected program. Saved settings include preferred background audio, iTunes playlist, settings, duration, and alarm settings.
General Settings

Program Fade Time:  This is the amount of time (between 0 and 5 seconds) to spend fading into the program and background audio at the beginning as well as how long to spend fading out at the end. When set to lowest setting (0 seconds) the program will begin immediately at your preferred volume setting. When set to its maximum (5 seconds) the volume will build up to your max volume setting over a period of 5 seconds.

Stage Fade Time:  This is the amount of time (between 0 and 5 seconds) to spend fading into the individual stages within a brainwave program. When set to lowest setting (0 seconds) each program program stage will begin immediately at your preferred volume setting. Subsequent program stages will also begin and end abruptly with no fade-in or fade-out. When set to its maximum (5 seconds) the volume will build up to your max volume setting over a period of 5 seconds.

Auto-Resume when Listening Device Restored:  If earbuds are unplugged the audio will Pause. When this setting is enabled the audio will automatically resume. When disabled, the user must manually tap play to resume the audio.

Wave Amplitude:  Increase the amplitude of the binaural sine waves. This will provide a subtle increase in the loudness of the binaural tones.

Carrier Signal:  Toggle between a low or medium frequency binaural carrier signal. This will not affect the frequency of the binaural tones as the left/right frequency offset will remain the same. A higher frequency carrier signal can make the tones more audible for some listeners and enhance the entrainment effect.

Reduce Other App Volume: (Only possible on iOS)  Instructs iOS to "duck" the audio of other audio apps while this app is playing. iOS will reduce all other apps' volume by 50% while this app is playing. Apple does not allow the level of ducking to be configured. MacOS can run the iPad version of this app, however, it does not allow it to implement audio-ducking, so this feature is only available on iOS.

Expand Volume Controls  Expand the width of the volume balance controls by removing their text labels. This allows for finer grain volume control.

Mindful Minutes  Enable the sharing of time spent using Relaxation and Meditation programs as Mindful Minutes with the iOS Health App. This app will only send the duration to the Health App and will not be allowed to read Health App data. The Mindful Minutes feature is not available on iPad.

7. Brainwave Frequencies

Below is a description of the Brainwave Frequencies used by the binaural programs in the BrainWave App Series:

Deep Delta (1 Hz)
  • This is on the lower end of the delta spectrum.
  • Strongly associated with deep, dreamless sleep (stage 3 and 4 of NREM sleep).
  • It represents some of the deepest restorative sleep stages where the body heals and grows.
  • May also be present during profound meditative states in some individuals.
Low Delta (2 Hz)
  • Still deep within the realm of dreamless sleep.
  • Again, associated with restorative sleep where the body's healing processes are active.
  • Sometimes observed in deep meditation or in states of trance.
High Delta (3 Hz)
  • Nearing the boundary between delta and theta frequencies.
  • Still within the range of deep, dreamless sleep.
  • Commonly found in the transition between deep sleep and the lighter stages of sleep.
Low Theta (4 Hz)
  • This is on the lower end of the theta spectrum.
  • Associated with deep states of meditation and trance.
  • It can also correspond to states of deep sleep in some individuals.
  • May play a role in memory consolidation during REM sleep.
Mid Theta (5 Hz)
  • Still considered a deep meditation state.
  • Can correspond to REM sleep, where dreaming occurs.
  • Related to creative insight, visualization, and imagination.
High Theta (6 Hz)
  • Moving towards the higher end of the theta range.
  • Often linked with creative visualization.
  • Associated with relaxation, problem-solving, and intuitive thinking.
Low Alpha (7 Hz)
  • This is at the lower end of the alpha spectrum.
  • It's often seen during deep relaxation or meditative states.
  • At this frequency, there can be a blending of theta and alpha activity, which may be associated with deep relaxation, creativity, and visualization.
Mid Alpha (10 Hz)
  • This is right in the middle of the alpha range and is a hallmark frequency for the alpha state.
  • It's often associated with light meditation, relaxation, and a state of calm awareness.
  • It's also linked to reductions in stress, promoting relaxation, and mental clarity.
High Alpha (12 Hz)
  • Moving towards the upper end of the alpha range.
  • Can be seen in states of relaxed alertness.
  • Associated with a calm and mindful awareness, potentially aiding in tasks that require relaxed focus.
  • This frequency can also serve as a bridge to the more alert beta brainwave states.
Low Beta (14 Hz)
  • The transition point from the relaxed alpha state to the more alert beta state.
  • Light concentration and active processing of information.
  • A state of enhanced alertness begins to set in compared to the alpha state.
  • Suitable for tasks that require attention but aren't overly complex or stressful.
Mid Beta (20 Hz)
  • Represents a more dominant frequency in the beta range.
  • Engaged in active problem-solving, decision-making, and focused mental activity.
  • Suitable for tasks that require logical sequencing and analytical processing.
High-Mid Beta (25 Hz)
  • Represents the higher spectrum of the beta range before it transitions into gamma frequencies.
  • Useful for complex cognitive tasks and situations requiring heightened awareness or quick reaction times.
High Beta (30 Hz)
  • At the boundary between high beta and low gamma. Gamma waves typically start around 30 Hz and go up to around 100 Hz.
  • Complex Thought: Engaging in very complex mental processes or integrating different pieces of information.
  • Peak Concentration: This frequency may be present during "in the zone" or "flow" states where one is completely absorbed in a task.
Low Gamma (35 Hz)
  • The lower end of the gamma spectrum.
  • Enhanced Perception: Increased sensory perception and rapid information processing.
  • Problem Solving: Processing complex problems and integrating varied information sources.
Gamma (40 Hz)
  • This is a crucial frequency in neuroscience, often linked to various cognitive functions.
  • Binding Theory: There's a hypothesis in neuroscience called the "binding theory" that suggests that this frequency may help in 'binding' and connecting information from different parts of the brain.
  • Conscious Awareness: Enhanced alertness and awareness are associated with this frequency.
Mid-Gamma (60 Hz)
  • Represents the mid-range of the gamma spectrum.
  • Peak Cognitive Functioning: May be present during complex cognitive activities that require high levels of concentration and integration of information.
  • Sensory Integration: Assisting in combining different senses into a cohesive experience.
High Gamma (80 Hz)
  • Transitioning to the higher end of the gamma spectrum.
  • Optimal Cognitive Performance: Often associated with peak performance, optimal attention, and information processing.
  • Flow States: Possible presence during "in the zone" moments, where there's complete immersion in an activity.
Max Gamma (100 Hz)
  • Approaching the ceiling of typically measured brainwave frequencies.
  • Hyperalertness: Extreme levels of alertness and cognitive processing speed.
  • Complex Neural Processing: Could be indicative of highly complex neural computations and integration.
8. Program Descriptions

On the iPhone or iPod Touch, to view program descriptions as well as recommended minimum usage durations tap the button. On the iPad the description of the selected program is always visible.
9. Background Audio

The choice of which ambient background to use does not affect the effectiveness of binaural brainwave entrainment. Choose the background that is most relaxing to help improve receptivity to the entrainment process. Tap the button to select one of the available ambient backgrounds. You can adjust the volume balance between the binaural tones and the background to suit your comfort level, as long as the brainwave audio is still audible.

This app also allows you to create your own playlist of iTunes music and save that playlist as part of your saved preferences for each program.

Be sure to download the audio from iCloud to the device for it to function properly within the app.

If you have Hypnosis, Affirmation or other tracks in iTunes that you would like to combine with the audio in the app you can also choose to play both iTunes audio and an included ambient background as well.

Background Modes:
The 'Background Mode' is set on the Background Settings screen. Below are descriptions of the different modes available. Each has its own unique features as well as limitations imposed by iOS.
  • Ambience Only

    Use only the included ambience as background audio. This mode is primarily for people that want to use Earbud Remote Controls or the Lockscreen Controls to play or pause the app. iOS only allows apps to use those controls when only one app is playing, so other audio apps aren't permitted to play in the background in this mode. Note that if you connect your device to a car audio system that some are designed to automatically send a play command to the Lockscreen ("Now Playing") app when a connection is made, which could cause this app to play if it was recently used. The binaural tones won't affect you without earbuds. To avoid this and to combine the included ambience with another audio app use the 'Ambience + Other App' mode. To use another app as the background, such as Spotify or Apple Music, you can also use the 'Other App' mode.

  • Other App or No Background

    Use this mode if you want to use another audio app for the background or if you only want to listen to the Binaural Tones.

  • Ambience + Other App

    Play the included ambience and allow another background audio app to play as well. Some users prefer to keep BrainWave in this mode and just turn the included Ambience volume down to zero when they want to use this app alongside another background audio app.

  • iTunes

    Play music from the integrated iTunes Music playlist. Music must be downloaded to the device and you need to add music to a playlist in BrainWave and select tracks before this option can be selected. When using iTunes mode the background volume slider will not be present on the main screen as iTunes volume always matches the device volume, which is set with the device's volume side controls. If you prefer, you can select the 'Other App' or 'Ambience + Other' mode and play Apple Music or any audio app alongside this app instead of using the built-in iTunes playlist. In this mode earbud remotes and Airpods will only control iTunes--this is because when iTunes is playing only it can be the 'Now Playing' or Lockscreen app.

    This mode is intended for iOS and is not recommended if you are running this app on an Apple Silicon Mac (Macs running Apple M series processors). On MacOS, music should instead be played directly from the Apple Music App. Please refer to the Apple Silicon section for more information.

  • Ambience + iTunes

    Play ambience and your iTunes playlist together. Music must be downloaded to the device. When in this mode the iTunes volume will match the overall volume of the device, which is set with the physical side controls. In this mode earbud remotes and Airpods will only control iTunes.

    This mode is intended for iOS and is not recommended if you are running this app on an Apple Silicon Mac (Macs running Apple M series processors). On MacOS, music should instead be played directly from the Apple Music App. Please refer to the Apple Silicon section for more information.
iTunes Playback Modes:
When using the 'iTunes' or 'iTunes + Ambience' background modes an additional control will appear in the Background section of the main screen. This control allows you to skip forward and back in your iTunes playlist, as well as change the playback mode. Below are the 3 playback modes for the iTunes playlist. These controls only affect iTunes music when it is played from within BrainWave using the included iTunes playlist creator. If you are instead playing the Apple Music app alongside BrainWave you will need to control playback from within the Apple Music app.
  • Repeat All - BrainWave will play all of the selected tracks in your iTunes playlist in order, then loop back to the beginning.
  • Repeat One - Repeat a single track continuously.
  • Shuffle - BrainWave will shuffle the selected songs in your iTunes playlist.
Car Audio Warnings:
When using the Ambience-Only mode under Background Settings this app will be controllable from the iOS Lockscreen. Some Car Audio Systems will automatically send a play command to any Lockscreen app upon establishing a Bluetooth or USB Connection. If your vehicle auto-plays other Lockscreen apps such as iTunes/Apple Music do not use the Ambience-Only Background Mode. Instead, use the Ambience + Other background mode which will prevent the app from being controllable from the Lockscreen.

The Auto-Resume setting under the Settings window can also cause a car to auto-play the app if you remove your earbuds during a program, causing the app to pause, and then connect your phone to a Car Audio System. To prevent this, leave Auto-Resume disabled. (It is disabled by default)

Vehicles that auto-play Lockscreen apps do so for any app that happens to be on the Lockscreen and the only solution is to prevent the app from being Lockscreen controllable. With BrainWave this requires using the Ambience + Other background mode.

Apple Silicon Support - Background Audio: If you are using this app on an Apple Silicon Mac (Macs running Apple M series processors) please refer to the Apple Silicon Support section for more information about the requirements of using the iTunes Music integration on MacOS.
10. Alarm

This app includes an alarm that can be played at the end of a program to either wake you up or signal the end of a meditation session. Tap the button to bring up the alarm menu where you can enable/disable the alarm, configure its volume, and select from different sound options.
11. Screen Orientation

This app has built-in UIs for iPhone and iPad. It supports Portrait orientation on the iPhone and iPod Touch, and All orientations on the iPad.

On the iPad the UI will switch between landscape and portrait views when the device is rotated. Each time the device is rotated the lock/release autorotation toggle button appears at the top of the screen for 15 seconds. When the orientation is locked to Portrait or Landscape, the button appears as to indicate that Tapping it then will allow rotation between Portrait and Landscape. When the orientation is allowed to rotate the button appears as to indicate that tapping it will toggle autorotation to locked.
12. Language Settings

The app will default to your device system language, but you can change it manually by tapping the language settings button in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen to display up the language selector. For the app to load the selected language you must shutdown and restart it, which is not the same as closing and re-opening it. To shutdown and restart the app:

1. Double-press device Home button to see all running apps. To view all Running Apps on devices without a Home button swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen to about 1/3 of the screen height and then release.
2. Swipe-up on this app to shut it down
3. Press device Home button. On devices without a Home button tap the screen to dismiss the Running Apps list.
4. Open this app again
13. FAQ


  • Question: Will the app work if I listen over my stereo speakers?

    Answer: No, you must wear headphones or earbuds in order for the app to work as the left and right frequencies must be isolated for the brain to process binaural audio.

  • Question: Why can't I use a remote or the iTunes "Now Playing" controls to skip audio tracks or play/pause the audio in iTunes background mode? Why do remote controls only work in Ambience mode?

    Answer: iOS allows only one app to respond to remote controls because only one audio app can be the "Now Playing" app. When using the iTunes music or another app as background the other app becomes the "Now Playing" app and takes over the remote controls. When using the included Ambience as the background all the audio is coming from our app so we're able assume the "Now Playing" role and can then respond to remote control commands.

  • Question: Why can't I play audio from a second app while using this app in Ambience Mode?

    Answer: In Ambience mode we tell iOS that we are the "Now Playing" app so that remote controls will work. Other apps like Spotify also claim that role, so we can't both play at the same time when our app is in Ambience mode. So if you want to use the Ambient backgrounds and another app you need to select the 4th background mode: Ambience + Other App. In that mode we won't claim the "Now Playing" role and remote controls won't work, but you'll be able to play another app like Spotify in the background. To combine just brainwaves with another app's audio use the 3rd background mode, 'No Background'.

  • Question: In iTunes Background mode if I pause the iTunes music with my remote why do the binaural tones keep playing and why does the iTunes track then end early?

    Answer: Because on iOS only one app can be the "Now Playing" app and respond to remote control commands, and iTunes takes over that role. So when you pause the iTunes audio outside of our app, our app is not informed and continues to play the binaural tones. Also, since it doesn't know the iTunes track was paused it continues to count down the time remaining in the track and moves to the next track when it reaches zero. So if you pause an iTunes track outside of our app with remote controls for 10 seconds our app will skip to the next song 10 seconds before the end of the track.

  • Question: When using the app's built-in iTunes Playlist, it sometimes plays a track that is not in my playlist, how do I prevent this?

    Answer: When using the built-in playlist this app sends a request to play each track to the Apple Music app, however, if the Apple Music app was used recently it will sometimes default to its own shuffle mode and play a track that is not in your playlist. To prevent this, bring up the carousel of currently running apps and swipe up on Apple Music to shut the Apple Music app down. To bring up the carousel on a device with a physical Home button, double tap the Home button. On devices without a home button, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to about 1/3 of the screen height until you see a horizontal carousel of apps appear. Shutting down the Apple Music app will refresh the state of Apple Music and cause it to properly respond to commands from BrainWave and play the correct tracks.

  • Question: Why are the BrainWave apps individual apps instead of a single app with in-app purchases?

    Answer: The BrainWave series was originally launched years before in-app purchases were created and Apple does not provide a way to convert an individual app to an in-app purchase inside another app. Without a way to link apps to in-app purchases there would be no way to convert them and preserve customers' past purchases. We don't want our customers to have to pay twice for our apps.

  • Question: Does the volume of the background ambience affect the brainwave entrainment process?

    Answer: The brainwave entrainment signal only needs to be audible to be effective, and the presence of ambience actually helps the brain perceive binaural tones.

  • Question: Do I need to concentrate on the brainwave sound for the app to work?

    Answer: No, just relax as that will do more to make your mind more receptive to the entrainment process.

  • Question: Why does the volume of the brainwave portion of the audio fade in and out?

    Answer: Each stage fades out before the next fades in to prevent interference.

  • Question: When I lock the screen the sound turns off. How do I keep it playing?

    Answer: This is due to the device being low on running application memory, not storage memory, but the memory shared by all running apps. Restarting the device with a full shutdown resolves this issue. Periodically restarting iOS devices also improves overall performance.

  • Question: Only the ambient background part of the audio is playing, why can't I hear the brainwave tones?

    Answer: Be sure that you're wearing headphones or earbuds as they're required for the binaural beats to be perceived, and double check that you have the brainwave volume slider turned up. If you still can't hear the brainwave audio restart the device with a full shutdown as iOS may not have allocated sufficient memory for both audio streams. When you restart be sure to fully shutdown the device by holding down the power button on the top of the device until the "Slide to Power Off" indicator appears and then slide that control.

  • Question: If I'm using a sleep program when should I begin using the app?

    Answer: For sleep programs you should start the program when you lie down to sleep.

  • Question: Am I supposed to use programs for Focus, Concentration or Brainstorming before or during an activity?

    Answer: There are benefits to using the programs both before and during, just as long as the activity isn't driving, walking/crossing streets, operating machinery etc.

  • Question: Will a Relaxation program still work if I'm listening while working at the computer?

    Answer: Yes, however, it will be more effective if you're lying down or sitting quietly. To some degree your work will maintain higher frequency brainwaves, but the binaural tones will still have a relaxing effect.

  • Question: How do I play BrainWave with another audio app like Spotify or Audible?

    Answer: First, tap the Background Settings button in BrainWave. At the top of that window select the 'No Background' option for the Background Source. This will allow the other app to play audio at the same time as BrainWave.

  • Question: When I get in my car and the device is connected via bluetooth or USB why does it sometimes begin to play?

    Answer: When a connection is made to a device via USB or Bluetooth some car audio systems send a play command to the device to resume the current "Now Playing" app. Whichever app was last playing and that currently appears as the "Now Playing" app on your lockscreen will receive this command and automatically start playing. The binaural tones won't affect you when this happens because you're not wearing earbuds or headphones. To prevent this from happening use the "Ambience + Other" background mode in the Background Settings instead of "Ambience Only". It is only in "Ambience Only" mode that the app will appear on the lockscreen and respond to remote play commands. Also be sure that the Auto-Resume option under the main Settings window (bottom-left of main screen) is disabled. It is disabled by default. This setting could cause the audio to resume in a car if you were listening to a program and then disconnected your earbuds and connected the device to the car. If Auto-Resume is disabled you will have to manually press play in the app to resume the audio. If it is enabled the audio will resume as soon as a new audio listening device (USB speakers, earbuds, Bluetooth audio system) has been connected.

  • Question: What can cause the audio to skip or iTunes to begin playing even though I haven't pressed the earbud remote buttons?

    Answer: 3.5 mm headphone jacks can become contaminated with dust, which can cause short circuits across the small black rubber rings. These rubber rings separate sections of the headphone jack that correspond to different earbud remote commands like play, pause, skip forward, and skip back. When there is contamination even the slighest movement of the jack can cause an erroneous connection that sends one of these signals. To resolve the issue wipe the headphone jack clean and blow air into the plug opening to free any dust particles. A similar issue can also occur with lightning connectors and is resolved the same way.

  • Question: When using iTunes as the background if I pull out one AirPod why does iTunes pause but not BrainWave? Why is it that when I remove both AirPods both iTunes and the binaural audio stop?

    Answer: iOS only allows one app to be the "Now Playing"/Lockscreen app. When iTunes is playing, whether it is from within BrainWave or running from the iTunes Music app, it becomes the "Now Playing" app, and therefore only it will receive a "pause" command from earbud remotes or the removal of one AirPod. If you pull out both AirPods that is the equivalent of pulling out the plug of wired earbuds, which actually sends an "Audio Device Interrupted" message to all audio apps, not just to the "Now Playing"/Lockscreen app, so in that situation BrainWave is able to stop the binaural audio.

  • Question: I have Auto-Resume enabled but when the app is in the background and I unplug my earbuds and then plug them back in the audio doesn't resume, why is this?

    Answer: For security reasons iOS does not allow a background app to wake itself back up if it has been paused. For this reason the audio can only resume automatically if the app is in the foreground when the earbuds are plugged back in.

14. Contact Us

Please contact support@banzailabs.com if you have any questions, comments or suggestions. You can do this by tapping "Email Support" in the app.

Support Contact:
support@banzailabs.com

15. Notes

Warning: Do not use while driving or operating machinery or walking near traffic.

Note: Headphones or earbuds are required for binaural tones to be effective.

Car Audio Warnings: When using the Ambience-Only mode under Background Settings this app will be controllable from the iOS Lockscreen. Some Car Audio Systems will automatically send a play command to any Lockscreen app upon establishing a Bluetooth or USB Connection. To prevent this, do not use the Ambience-Only Background Mode if your vehicle exhibits this behavior. Instead, use the Ambience + Other background mode which will prevent the app from being controllable from the Lockscreen.

The Auto-Resume setting under the Settings window can also cause a car to auto-play the app if you removed earbuds and then connected your phone to a Car Audio System while the app is paused. To prevent this, do not use the Ambience-Only Background Mode and instead use the Ambience + Other mode.

Vehicles that auto-play Lockscreen apps do so for any app that happens to be on the Lockscreen and the only solution is to prevent the app from being Lockscreen controllable. With BrainWave this requires using the Ambience + Other background mode.
16. More Apps
Thank you for purchasing our app. We strive to create apps that are inspiring and enjoyable to use, so if you have suggestions or questions please tap "Email Support" button and we'll be happy to get back to you.

To view more apps please tap the "More Apps" button below the Help window.
17. Apple Family Share
Family Share is a feature provided by Apple that apps such as this one have enabled. It is setup and managed using Apple iCloud. To learn how to configure it use google to search for "Apple App Family Share" and click on the Family Share support page in the search results.



Important Note: When members of your Family Share group download an app that you've shared they should not do so from the app's page in the App Store as the App Store can sometimes erroneously charge them. Instead, they need to go into the App Store app, then tap on their account image in the upper right corner, and then tap "Purchased". Then they need to select your account from the list of "Family Purchases". They can then download the apps you've purchased free of charge.
18. Apple Silicon Mac Support
Macs using Apple Silicon (M1, M2, etc) are able to run this app using iPad emulation. Intel-based Macs are not able to run this app because Apple does not include iPad emulation with Intel-based Macs as they are based on a different chip architecture.

Important: There are differences with the Apple Music integration on MacOS resulting from differences between iOS and MacOS and the additional security requirements on MacOS. For this reason, on MacOS, to combine iTunes music with BrainWave it is recommended that you play music directly from the Apple Music app while also running BrainWave instead of using BrainWave's playlist creator. MacOS already allows multiple audio apps to play simultaneously, which makes the playlist creator unnecessary. MacOS also requires additional security steps to use BrainWave's iTunes integration and its playlist creator. These additional security steps are not needed if you're playing music with the Apple Music app, or any audio app, alongside BrainWave. Therefore, it is recommended that you play audio directly from Apple Music instead of using the app's built-in playlist creator. If you still wish to use BrainWave's built-in playlist creator the following steps are required on MacOS:
  1. To use BrainWave's built-in playlist creator your computer must be authorized for downloads within Apple Music. To do this, open the Apple Music app, click "Account" in the top menu, then click "Authorize this computer". Apple limits the number of computers that can be authorized to 5, so if you are already at that limit you will need to either deauthorize one of the other computers, or you will need to play the iTunes Music directly from the Apple Music app instead of using BrainWave's built-in playlist creator.
  2. For Apple Music to respond to BrainWave when using the built-in playlist creator you will need to first briefly play any audio track from the Apple Music app to wake it. This step will be necessary any time you're starting a new program in BrainWave.
19. Spatial Audio
It is strongly recommended that you disable spatial audio when listening to binaural tones. This is because spatial audio introduces its own binaural effects designed to cause the brain's directional hearing system to think the sound is coming from different directions. Because Binaural Tones also rely on the brain's directional hearing system this can interfere with the brainwave entrainment process.

Steps to Disable Spatial Audio:
  1. Have your AirPods in your ears and play a binaural program
  2. Open the iOS Control Center by swiping down from the upper right corner of the screen
  3. Press and hold the volume control
  4. Tap 'Spatial Audio' on the lower right
  5. Select the option to turn off Spatial Audio
20. Mindful Minutes / Health App integration
This app can share Mindful Minutes with the Apple Health App when running on an iPhone. It only sends information to the Health App and does not read or store information. This feature is only available for iPhone and is not currently available when running on an iPad.

Mindful Minutes will only be recorded for Relaxation and Meditation programs. These are programs that are composed primarily of Alpha and Theta wave stages. The Program Details window will indicate whether the selected program is a \"Mindful Minutes\" program. A list of the programs is also provided below.

Steps to Enable:
  1. Open the Settings window in the app by tapping the button with the wrench icon.
  2. Scroll down to Export Mindful Minutes to Apple Health App.
  3. Tap "Yes"
  4. After a couple of seconds iOS will display a window that will prompt to allow this app to send data to the Health App.
  5. Tap the switch next to Mindful Minutes and then tap the Allow button in the upper right corner.
  6. Once enabled, the app will send Mindful Minutess to the Health App when you Pause or Stop a relaxation or meditation program.
  7. If you Pause a relaxation or meditation program your progess will be sent to the Health app. If you then press Play to resume the program and it ends or you press Stop later, the remaining progress will be sent to the Health App.
Troubleshooting
  1. If you attempt to enable the Mindful Minutes export and either the iOS Health App Approval screen does not appear, or if you accidentally Deny access you will need to enable acccess using the iOS Settings App.
  2. You will only be able to use the iOS Settings app to enable access if you first attempt to do so within this app. This is because iOS Settings only shows apps that have attempted to request Health App access.
  3. To enable access in iOS Settings, open the iOS Settings app, then scroll down to Health, tap Health, tap Data Access & Devices, then tap the switch next to the name of this app to enable access.
  4. Once access has been granted in iOS Settings, return to this app, go into this apps Settings by tapping the wrench icon, then tap Yes next to Export Mindful Minutes

BrainWave Series Programs that will send Mindful Minutes to Apple Health if permission is granted and and Mindful Minutes export is enabled in the BrainWave Settings (accessed by tapping the wrench button on the BrainWave main screen):

BrainWave:
Morning Meditation
Stress Reduction
Calm Reflection
Reduce Anxiety
Deep Relaxation
Meditation
Yoga Meditation
Alpha Relaxation
Theta Meditation
Night Meditation
Anger Relief
Positive Mood Boost
Night Reading

Pure Tones (included in BrainWave):
4 Hz - Low Theta
5 Hz - Mid Theta
6 Hz - High Theta
7 Hz - Low Alpha
8 Hz - Low-Mid Alpha
10 Hz - Mid Alpha
12 Hz - High Alpha

Altered States:
Morning Zen
Chakra Meditation
Awakened Mind
Tranquil Thoughts
Deep Reflection
Astral Projection
Floating
Quiet Mind
Zen Meditation
Mindful Meditation
Heightened Awareness
Beta Meditation
Gamma Meditation
High Theta Meditation
Full Theta Spectrum
Peacefully Awake
Full Alpha Spectrum

Dream Inducer:
Bedtime Meditation
Recall Meditation

NeuroTrainer:
Recovery Meditation

Sharp Mind:
Centered Mind
What's New in this Update
New Features:
  1. Mindful Minutes (located in Settings--the "wrench" button): You can now enable the app to export Mindful Minutes to the Apple Health app in the Settings of this app. This feature is only available for iPhone and is not currently supported for iPad. Please see Mindful Minutes for information on how to enable the feature and which programs are shared as Mindful Minutes.
  2. Audio Ducking (Located in Settings / Not available on MacOS): This setting tells iOS to reduce the volume of other audio apps while this app is playing. This is helpful for those users who prefer to use other audio apps as background while listening to this app. Apple does not specify the exact amount of volume reduction, nor does it allow it to be customized, but it is approximately 50%. iPad apps are not able to duck audio when run on MacOS.
  3. Amplitude Boost (located in Settings): An option to increase the amplitude of the binaural sine waves. This provides a subtle increase in the volume of the binaural tones.
  4. Carrier Signal (located in Settings): An option to increase the carrier frequency of the binaural tones. This can make the tones more audible for some users and enhance the entrainment effect.
  5. Frequency Display: In addition to the text details, the Program Details now displays the numerical frequencies used in the selected program.
  6. Program Organization: Some of the programs have been re-ordered to improve their organization. Gamma Power Nap has been moved from the bottom of the list to directly under the lower frequency Power Nap program. The Dreamy Sleep program has been move to just above Deep Sleep
Pure Tones:

Pure Tones have been added as an option in the Program List Selector menu. Pure Tones is a complete collection of single-stage programs targeting specific brainwave frequencies. There is a small amount of overlap between the Pure Tones programs and the standard program list due to the presence of legacy single-stage programs, such as Concentration and Deep Sleep.
  1. To access Pure Tones, open the Program List Selector by tapping the button on the left frame of the Program Dial.
  2. In the Program List Selector window, tap the Pure Tones button to switch the contents of the Program Dial to the Pure Tones programs.
  3. To return to the BrainWave multi-stage program list, tap the BrainWave button in the Program List Selector window.
New Programs:
  1. Gamma-40 Focus: A new single-stage 40 Hz Gamma program. The 40 Hz Gamma wave has been shown in studies to improve focus, memory, cognition, and mood. Stimulating 40 Hz Gamma waves during the day has also been shown to improve sleep at night.
  2. Deep Slow-Wave Sleep: A new multi-stage 2 Hz Low-Delta and 1 Hz Deep-Delta program. This program stimulates very low frequency delta waves associated with Slow-Wave sleep. Slow-wave sleep is the stage when our mind and body undergo growth and restoration.
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