Doplock guides
Block apps on your iPhone: Which approach fits?
There is more than one way to restrict apps on an iPhone. Apple Screen Time helps you manage usage. Doplock adds a physical step: block selected apps and use an NFC card to unlock them intentionally.
What do you want your app blocker to do?
You might want less Instagram scrolling in the evening, or need your phone for work without opening TikTok between tasks. Start with the situation you want to change. A specific rule gives you something concrete to practise.
- Understand your habits: identify the apps taking your attention.
- Protect focused time: select the distracting apps for a particular task.
- Return intentionally: decide when to take a break and unlock.
The built-in option: Apple Screen Time
Open Screen Time in iPhone Settings to review usage and manage restrictions. Available controls and labels depend on your iOS version. See Apple’s current Screen Time guide.
The physical option: Doplock with an NFC card
Doplock combines an iPhone app with a physical Focus Card. Bring the card to your phone when you decide to unlock. For example, you could leave it in another room while you study, creating a deliberate step before returning to your selected apps.
- Open Doplock in the App Store and check the listed device requirements.
- Sign in, complete setup and grant the required Screen Time permission.
- Redeem your activation code and link your NFC card following the in-app instructions.
- Select available apps or categories and activate the block.
- When prompted, hold the card near your iPhone to unlock intentionally.
Which apps should you select?
Begin with one or two apps you open without a clear purpose. Keep the tools needed for your task available. Before a longer session, check that your selection behaves as expected. Selection and behaviour can vary with iOS version and permissions.
Before you buy
Doplock currently supports iPhone; Android is planned. The Focus Card includes an activation code. A separate code requires a compatible NFC card of your own. An app blocker is a practical aid, with no promise of a particular time saving or complete resistance to bypassing.
Read how NFC app blocking works or build a routine with our screen-time reduction plan.
Check your device, card and activation
The workflow described here requires an NFC-capable iPhone. Doplock’s App Store listing currently requires iOS 18.0 or later (checked on 31 October 2026). A listing for other Apple devices does not automatically confirm support for NFC card unlocking on those devices. Android is not currently offered as a supported product.
The Focus Card is a physical NFC card with an activation code included. The separately purchased code is digital and does not replace a card: you need your own compatible NFC card. Confirm compatibility before buying. See the Doplock FAQ for more answers and compare the card and code in the shop.
