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Then there\u2019s Forest<\/strong>, for Android or iOS, which I\u2019ve found to be useful whenever I\u2019ve wanted to try to encourage myself to spend less time on my phone. The longer you ignore your handset, the bigger your virtual forest grows, and the app developers invest in real tree planting to further incentivize you. The main focus timer can be used without paying, while upgrades like customizations and allowed lists will set you back at least $6 a month.<\/p>\n ScreenZen<\/strong>, available for Android or iOS, is comprehensive and completely free (though you can donate to the developer if you find it helpful, which I\u2019d recommend). You can set up a variety of barriers between you and your distracting apps, depending on your preference, including customized pauses (with motivational messages) and math challenges. Conventional app and timer blocks are also included.<\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n ScreenZen encourages you to be more deliberate about opening apps.<\/span>Courtesy of David Nield<\/span><\/p>\n One of the most thorough options here is Roots<\/strong>, though it\u2019s available only on iOS. You\u2019re able to schedule phone-free periods, block specific apps, and set up phone detox challenges that you can take on with friends and family. Like Oh My Hours, the app is also really good at giving you a breakdown of how much time you\u2019ve saved by staying out of certain apps. Basic blocks and limits are free, with more advanced customizations available for $10 a month.<\/p>\n Also worth considering is Brick<\/strong>, which combines the free Android or iOS app with a small physical device that\u2019ll set you back $59. The Brick itself is an NFC transmitter (it works like tap-to-pay), and when you want some distraction-free time, just press your phone against it to block (or unblock) specific apps. The controls are all managed in the Brick app. It\u2019s incredibly simple, and that\u2019s what makes it effective.<\/p>\n