Several apps and devices can help reduce smartphone distractions by blocking selected apps, encouraging periods away from the phone, or tracking time saved. Forest and ScreenZen are available on Android and iOS, while Roots is iOS-only; Brick combines a mobile app with a physical NFC device.
Forest
Forest is available for Android and iOS. It can be useful if you want to spend less time on your phone: The longer you leave your handset alone, the larger your virtual forest grows. The app’s developer also invests in planting real trees to provide additional encouragement.
You can use the timer without paying, but features such as customization and allowlists require an upgrade costing at least $6 per month.
ScreenZen
ScreenZen is available for Android and iOS. It is comprehensive and completely free, although you can donate to the developer if you find it useful.
Depending on your preferences, you can create different barriers between yourself and distracting apps. These include customized pauses with motivational messages and math challenges. ScreenZen also includes blocks for traditional apps and timers.
Roots
One of the most thorough options is Roots, which is available only on iOS. You can schedule periods without your phone, block specific apps, or set up a phone-detox challenge to take on with friends and family.
Like Oh My Hours, Roots provides a detailed breakdown of how much time you have saved by not using certain apps. Basic blocks and restrictions are free, while more advanced customization options cost $10 per month.
Brick
Brick combines a free app, available for Android and iOS, with a small physical device that costs $59.
The Brick is an NFC transmitter, similar to the technology used for tap-to-pay. When you want distraction-free time, you can block or unblock selected apps by holding your phone against the Brick. All controls are managed through the Brick app. Its simplicity is also what makes it effective.
Source: www.wired.com
