What is Zen Mode?
Zen Mode is a feature that allows you to listen to and enjoy our background Scenes without any buttons, menus, or widgets blocking the image. It hides the app interface so you can view your Scene without disruption.
Here is how to use Zen Mode depending on your device:
How to Use Zen Mode on the Mobile App (iOS & Android)
There are two ways to enter Zen Mode on a mobile device:
Method 1: Tapping the screen
Open the Calm app and go to your Home screen.
Tap the background in a blank space (away from any icons).
All buttons and menus will instantly disappear.
Method 2: Landscape Mode You can also automatically enter Zen Mode by rotating your phone horizontally into landscape mode.
Important Note for Android Users: The ability to view background Scenes in landscape mode has been temporarily disabled for Android devices to optimize app performance. If you are on an Android device, please use the tapping method above instead.
Troubleshooting for iOS Users: If your iPhone does not enter Zen Mode when you turn it sideways, make sure your iPhone's system-wide "Portrait Orientation Lock" is turned off in your device's Control Center.
How to Exit Zen Mode on Mobile:
To bring your buttons and menus back, hold your phone vertically (in portrait mode) and tap the screen again.
How to Use Zen Mode on the Website (Desktop)
If you are using Calm on a computer web browser, follow these steps to hide the menus:
Go to and select the scene you would like to view.
Check the box labeled "Show scenes when idle".
Navigate back to the main Home screen.
Wait 15 seconds without moving your mouse or cursor. The buttons will automatically fade away, leaving you with a distraction-free scene. 😌
How to Exit Zen Mode on the Website:
To bring your menus and buttons back, simply move your mouse or trackpad. The interface will instantly reappear.