Block Reels, Shorts, Stories and Spotlight on Android with AppBlock

Shorts. Reels. Stories. Spotlight.

You open your phone to check a message… and suddenly, you’ve spent 30 minutes watching videos you didn’t even ask for. 🤯 These features are built to keep you scrolling — fast, endless, and hard to quit.

But with AppBlock, you can stop the scroll without deleting the app. It lets you block just the distracting parts — like Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts — while still using the parts you actually need.

Let’s walk you through exactly how to do it.

How to Block Reels, Shorts and Stories on Android (Step-by-Step)

📲 Before you start:
Make sure you have the latest version of AppBlock installed from the Google Play Store. This feature is available on Android only.

Here’s how to block specific app sections:

1. Open AppBlock on your Android phone
2. Create a new Schedule or start a Quick Block
3. In the setup screen, go to Blocking and select Blocklist
4. Select the apps you want to control (e.g. Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat)
5. Under each app, you’ll see available sections — choose what to block:
   • Reels, Stories for Instagram
   • Shorts for YouTube
   • Spotlight for Snapchat
6. Finish your setup and activate the block

That’s it! You’ll still be able to use the app — just without the features that keep you scrolling. 🌱

That’s it! You’ll still be able to use the app — just without the features that keep you scrolling. 🌱

What Is AppBlock?

AppBlock is a simple but powerful tool to help you take control of your screen time.

Whether you want to reduce distractions, improve focus, or just stop doomscrolling through videos late at night, AppBlock lets you set clear limits — without needing to delete your favorite apps. You decide what stays and what goes. 💆

Key features include:

• Quick Block: Instantly block apps or content with one tap, or focus with Pomodoro timer
• Schedules: Set recurring blocks during work, sleep, or focus time
• Strict Mode: Prevent yourself from changing settings mid-block
• Insights: Track your usage and see your progress over time

Reclaim Your Time, One Feature at a Time

Blocking Reels or Shorts might feel like a small change — but it adds up quickly. You’ll spend less time stuck in loops and more time doing what matters.

Try it out for a few days and see the difference for yourself. 🙌