Definition & Why People Use It
White noise is a steady sound containing many frequencies at equal intensity, perceived as a uniform “shhh.” Variants include pink noise (softer) and brown noise (deeper).
Why people use it
- Sleep: a constant mask covers sudden noises (traffic, a partner’s snore) that would wake you.
- Focus: it reduces distraction in noisy offices or cafés.
- Calm: many find a neutral sound less stimulating than music or silence.
How apps deliver it
A focus app like Meow FM generates or loops these sounds—white, pink, brown noise, plus ambient mixes (rain, fan)—often with timers and mixers. The point is not entertainment but an acoustic environment: a predictable sound bed that helps your brain settle into sleep or deep work. Some pair it with other relaxation sounds for a personalized soundscape.