Redshift: Blue Light Filter for Linux - Improve Sleep & Eye Comfort
The Impact of Screen Exposure on Eye Health and Sleep
Prolonged computer use can often lead to eye strain and difficulties with sleep. This is largely due to the nature of computer screens, which function as direct light sources.
The discomfort associated with screen viewing explains the increasing popularity of e-readers like the Kindle and Nook. These devices employ technology that simulates the appearance of paper.
This approach offers improved readability in bright conditions and reduces eye strain compared to traditional backlit screens.
Solutions for Windows and Mac Users
Users of Windows and macOS operating systems have a readily available solution in the form of F.lux. This software adjusts screen color temperature to minimize blue light emission.
Varun previously detailed the benefits of F.lux in his article, “Get Better Monitor Lighting That Feels Good To Your Eyes.” Jackson further explored its impact on sleep in “Use F.lux To Sleep Better After Late-Night Computer Activities.”
Redshift: A Linux Alternative
Historically, Linux users lacked a comparable option, as F.lux is not compatible with the Linux operating system.
Redshift addresses this gap, providing a similar functionality for Linux environments.
Currently in active development, Redshift may require some familiarity with the command line interface for initial setup.
However, the program is designed to be relatively straightforward to implement and utilize.
It dynamically adjusts the color temperature of your display based on your location and the time of day.
This adjustment reduces blue light, potentially easing eye strain and promoting better sleep patterns.
Understanding the Functionality
For those unfamiliar with applications like F.lux, the core purpose of Redshift might be unknown. This software dynamically adjusts your computer screen's color temperature, introducing a reddish hue as ambient light diminishes.
This adjustment is based on a natural phenomenon. The color of light sources shifts throughout the day. Daylight is characterized by a white or bluish-white spectrum, while artificial light sources typically emit a warmer, redder light.
Consequently, reading printed material appears white in daylight and gradually shifts to a reddish tone as darkness falls. Your brain subconsciously compensates for this change.
However, computer monitors, with their consistent white backlighting, don't replicate this natural transition. Prolonged exposure to this constant white light, particularly at night, can lead to eye strain and disrupted sleep patterns.
Redshift effectively mitigates these issues by simulating the natural shift in color temperature, promoting greater visual comfort and potentially improving sleep quality.
How It Works
The application works by subtly altering the red channel of your display. This is done to match the color temperature of the light around you.
You can configure Redshift to automatically adjust based on your location, or you can manually set the color temperature. It’s a simple process that can have a significant impact on your well-being.
Setting Up Redshift
Detailed and straightforward installation guidance for this software is readily available on the OMG Ubuntu blog, a prominent resource for Ubuntu users. They recently highlighted Redshift in a featured article.
For those not utilizing Ubuntu, comprehensive, platform-agnostic instructions can be located on the official Redshift website. Furthermore, installation procedures are even documented for Windows environments, though it is recommended that Windows users consider F.lux as an alternative.
Configuring Your Gnome Clock for Redshift
After installing Redshift, configuring your Gnome clock with your location is a beneficial step.
This adjustment can streamline the process of utilizing Redshift effectively.
Setting Your Location
Access your calendar by clicking on the clock icon in your system tray.
At the bottom of the pop-up window, you’ll find the "Locations" setting.
If your location is already configured, you can proceed to the next step.
Otherwise, add your location using the provided dialogue box, which is designed for ease of use.
Launching Redshift
With your location successfully set in the Gnome clock, you are now ready to launch Redshift.
This ensures that Redshift can accurately adjust your screen's color temperature based on your geographical position.
Proper location settings contribute to a more seamless and personalized experience with Redshift.
Leveraging Redshift for Screen Color Adjustment
Upon initial use of Redshift, it is recommended to execute the program via a terminal. This approach facilitates the identification of any potential errors that may arise during operation. Initiate your terminal application and enter the command "gtk-redshift".
Provided the installation is successful, a new notification applet should become visible within your system tray.
Should the applet not appear, you may be prompted to manually specify your latitude and longitude coordinates. While the program does contain some minor imperfections, this process is straightforward.
Return to the configuration interface previously utilized for location settings and record your latitude and longitude values. Subsequently, execute a command structured as follows: "gtk-redshift" followed by "-l", and then your latitude and longitude, separated by a colon.
Specifying Location via Command Line
As an illustration, for users located in Copenhagen, Denmark, the appropriate command would be:
gtk-redshift -l 55.7:12.6
This command will initiate Redshift and enforce the specified location settings.
A background process without the indicator applet is also achievable. Simply utilize the command "redshift" in place of "gtk-redshift" to operate Redshift without the system tray icon.
Automating Redshift Startup
Do you desire Redshift to automatically launch upon system boot? The process is straightforward. First, identify the exact command you successfully used to activate Redshift.
Next, navigate to your system settings. Select "System," followed by "Preferences," and then "Startup Programs."
Adding Redshift to Startup
Within the "Startup Programs" interface, add a new entry. Input your previously determined Redshift command into the designated "Command" field.
You are free to provide a descriptive name for the program as you see fit in the remaining fields. This will help you identify it within the list of startup applications.
Redshift will now be initiated each time your computer starts, ensuring consistent color temperature adjustment for improved sleep and eye comfort.
Finding Improved Sleep with Redshift
Enjoying articles from publications like The Economist is a common bedtime ritual for many. Utilizing a service such as Readability – which functions similarly to Safari's "Reader" mode in Chrome and Firefox – can enhance this experience.
A noticeable benefit of employing Redshift alongside reading is improved sleep quality. Many users report experiencing more restful sleep when Redshift is active.
Personal Experience and Encouragement
The author personally finds that sleep is more easily achieved and of a higher quality when Redshift is utilized before bed. Therefore, experimentation with Redshift is highly recommended.
Should you decide to test Redshift, sharing your results with others would be greatly appreciated. Feedback on personal experiences can be valuable to the community.
Community Collaboration
Any insights or techniques related to Redshift usage are welcome. The collective knowledge of users can contribute to a more optimized experience for everyone.
Learning from each other’s approaches to Redshift can unlock further benefits and enhance its effectiveness. Consider contributing your own tips and tricks.
