What it does
🚫 Block distracting apps permanently.
⏱️ Unlock them with an intentional timed break.
🔒 Apps automatically restrict after break ends.
🤔 Reflection delay window before break can be started.
🎯 Minimal UI to minimise distractions.
⚡ Quick 30-second setup.
Inspiration
Mindless scrolling was a huge problem for me impacting my productivity, wellbeing and motivation. I wanted to create an app blocker to help me take control over my phone usage and help others do the same.
Many similar screen time apps exist but they didn’t work for me because:
They required opening the app and manually starting a focus session to block distracting apps, which was often a point of friction. I felt that a default state where distracting apps are blocked permanently would be a better solution. Then, to use these apps, users must start a timed break session, automatically restricting them again afterwards and holding them accountable.
Complicated user interfaces and overly gamified designs, like growing virtual trees, collecting gemstones or earning points became distractions themselves. They often took a long time to set-up with useful features locked behind expensive paywalls. I needed something minimal, efficient, and purposeful.
Default ScreenTime statistics don’t tell the full story as not all phone usage is unproductive. I wanted a way to track the time you were distracted accurately.
Most other apps allow you to stop your focus session with little friction, so there was a need for an app with a customizable timer delay before you can unrestrict apps.
How we built it
Using Swift and Apple ScreenTime API
Challenges we ran into
Accomplishments that we're proud of
Beta version of the app is completed and under review by Apple before beta testing can start.
What we learned
What's next for Breaktime
Looking for anyone interested in being a beta tester or just interested in the launch!
Sign up @ breaktimeapp.github.io.
Beta releasing within 1 week.
Pending Apple Store release, August 2025.
