A free soundscape application has just introduced the kinds of controls that paid relaxation apps tend to keep hidden.

      Digital Trends may receive a commission when you make a purchase through links on our website. Why put your trust in us?

      The newest update for Oasis introduces 16 preset soundscapes, over 10 new sounds, and background audio aimed at enhancing focus, aiding sleep, facilitating meditation, and helping to wind down.

      Oasis version 2.2 enhances the functionality of this free soundscape application in daily life. The iPhone update includes pre-made soundscapes, new audio choices, and quicker options for returning to your setup when you want to focus, drift off, meditate, or relax.

      The most significant addition is a collection of 16 presets centered around themes of calmness, meditation, focus, and energy. Oasis also incorporates more than 10 additional sounds, a mini player, session memory, background mixed audio, interface improvements, bug fixes, performance enhancements, and accessibility adjustments.

      The app remains free, and its App Store listing states that the developer does not gather data from users. This aspect of privacy is beneficial for a calming app; users prefer not to create an account or deal with a data trail that interrupts their pursuit of quiet moments.

      What makes this update valuable

      The presets are designed to make using Oasis quicker when you prefer not to adjust each sound layer individually. You can launch the app, select a mood, and start with a pre-configured soundscape rather than assembling individual sounds one at a time.

      The mini player allows for a more streamlined experience during extended sessions, eliminating the need to navigate through the full interface just to manage the audio. Session memory also facilitates a quick return to your previous settings.

      The background mixed audio feature offers the most versatility. Oasis can play underneath music or podcasts, enabling you to enjoy an ambient layer alongside other audio you’re already engaged with.

      How Oasis creates atmosphere

      Oasis utilizes spatial sound placement, allowing users to arrange nature sounds within a 3D audio space. This design gives it a more tactile experience compared to standard loop players, especially when layering various sounds.

      The App Store listing also mentions binaural tones, which provide users with another option to create a focus or meditation sound bed. A sleep configuration can be made more enveloping or softer, while a work session can remain subtle and less distracting.

      Where Oasis still has limitations

      Oasis has a clear focus. It's an audio environment creator, rather than a broader wellness platform that offers coaching, lessons, or an extensive content library, as indicated by the provided information.

      Availability also requires careful attention, as the App Store page confirms its listing in Austria. Currently, Oasis version 2.2 is recommended as an accessible first option. Users are encouraged to begin with the presets and then fine-tune individual sounds once they find a satisfying arrangement.

      Paulo Vargas is an English major transitioned into reporting, then technical writing, with a career that consistently circles back to...

      In an age where smartphones are excessively expensive, the Samsung Galaxy M47 emerges as an affordable alternative.

      The Galaxy M47 is tailored for individuals seeking a phone without making a financial decision. Smartphone prices have escalated to unreasonable levels recently. More mid-range devices are approaching the price range of entry-level flagships, while entry-level models are competing with older but more powerful mid-range options. The Galaxy M47 serves as a refreshing choice, debuting during a time of rising costs while remaining accessible, launching in India at a starting price of Rs 22,999 (approximately $243), and includes a coupon offer. This model will be available for purchase on Amazon during the Prime Day sale starting July 4.

      Samsung is reportedly developing a rollable phone, and we can only hope it doesn’t encounter the same fate as LG.

      Foldable devices face stiff competition from Chinese counterparts, making rollable phones Samsung’s riskiest potential exit strategy. According to Korean outlet Money Today, Samsung is working on a rollable Galaxy expected for release in the first half of 2028, with discussions underway with Samsung Display regarding the key OLED panel supply.

      The timing could not be more challenging. Reports indicate that Samsung Display's share of foldable phone panels reportedly dropped behind BOE in the first quarter, even though Omdia forecasts a recovery linked to Samsung's upcoming foldable devices later this year.

      Here’s an interesting new app for individuals who treat every photo dump like a magazine layout.

      Mocha Frame is a compact app that curates every photo to look polished.

      You’re likely familiar with filters for social media posts. While some apps only provide minor enhancements, others aim to alter the overall aesthetic. Mocha Frame takes it a step further. It not only improves your photos but also allows you to frame or sign them prior to sharing.

      Highlighted in a Reddit post by its developer, Mocha Frame is an iPhone app focused on presentation rather than extensive editing. The developer describes it as a tool for imparting a cleaner, more sophisticated appearance to photos before sharing, offering simple frames, Polaroid