How to block apps on Android
Android has some blocking built in, and it's enough for many people. If you keep turning it off when a craving hits, a blocker with a delay works better. Here are all three options.
- App timers in Digital Wellbeing: a daily limit per app.
- Focus mode: pause chosen apps while it's on.
- A blocker app: blocks that take a day to undo.
1. App timers (Digital Wellbeing)
Built into most Android phones. The app greys out for the rest of the day once you reach the limit.
- Open Settings, then Digital Wellbeing & parental controls.
- Tap Dashboard and choose the app.
- Tap App timer and set a daily limit.
2. Focus mode
Also in Digital Wellbeing. Pick distracting apps and pause them all with one switch, or on a schedule. The catch: turning it off takes one tap.
3. A blocker app with a delay
The built-in options are easy to switch off in a weak moment. HYFO blocks an app until you ask to unblock it, then waits 24 hours before letting it open. It also blocks apps before they're installed, so deleting and reinstalling doesn't help.
- Install HYFO and open Focus, then Blocked apps.
- Allow usage access and display over other apps.
- Tap Block next to the app, or paste its Play Store link.
Questions
Can I block an app without uninstalling it?
Yes. App timers, Focus mode and HYFO all block an app while leaving it installed.
What's the hardest block to undo on Android?
Without parental controls, a block with a built-in delay, like HYFO's 24-hour unblock, is the hardest to undo on impulse.
Try HYFO
HYFO is a calm Android app for your health, money and screen time, free to start, with no ads and no account. Everything stays on your phone.