You Don’t Need to Pay for Distraction-Blocking Software

You can now block smartphone distractions using a cheap NFC chip and free software.

A new product called the Brick offers a physical method to block digital distractions on smartphones, requiring users to physically interact with the device to disable it. The Brick operates using an NFC chip, a technology also found in credit cards and passports. This revelation means that users do not need to purchase the Brick, as similar functionality can be achieved with inexpensive blank NFC chips, which cost about a dollar. Free applications are available for both iOS and Android that can leverage these NFC chips or QR codes to block access to distracting applications and websites. For iOS users, Foqos is an open-source app that allows blocking via NFC, QR codes, schedules, or even by scanning existing barcodes. It prevents users from uninstalling the app to bypass restrictions and ensures data privacy by keeping all information on the device. For Android users, Switchly offers similar features, including blocking specific app features and app/URL blocking, with a free tier that is highly functional. Another Android option, Lock, exclusively supports NFC blocking.

The core innovation behind the Brick is its use of NFC technology, which is readily available and inexpensive. This allows for a DIY approach to digital distraction blocking, democratizing access to such tools. The availability of free, robust applications like Foqos for iOS and Switchly for Android means that users can replicate the Brick's functionality without purchasing proprietary hardware. This shift empowers individuals to take control of their digital habits using readily accessible and cost-effective solutions.

This development signals a move towards more accessible and user-controlled digital wellness tools, moving away from expensive, single-purpose hardware. For app developers, it highlights an opportunity to integrate physical interaction triggers into software, potentially creating new engagement models. Consumers benefit from greater choice and lower costs, with the ability to customize their distraction-blocking strategies based on personal preferences and existing belongings, such as scanning a book's barcode.