AppBlock on Android

Some users have encountered a blocked UI system due to the “Block recent apps” feature. Here’s how you can resolve it:

1. Deactivate Strict Mode: If you’re able to, use one of the unblocking methods, like connecting your device to a charger or entering a PIN, to deactivate Strict Mode. In case you have not set a PIN code or charger unblocking, contact us using the Contact Support form and choose “Emergency unblocking” reason for contacting us.
2. Turn Off “Block Recent Apps”: Once Strict Mode is deactivated, go into your settings and disable the “Block recent apps” feature to prevent this issue from recurring.

If your mobile banking app, payment app, or wallet is being blocked even though you did not specifically block it, this is likely due to the “Block Device Settings” feature being enabled in Strict Mode.

Why This Happens:

Certain apps, such as banking and payment apps, often require access to authentication services (like fingerprint or password authenticators) in order to function properly. These authenticators sometimes need access to your device’s settings. When AppBlock’s Block Device Settings feature is enabled, it prevents these apps from accessing the necessary settings for authentication, which can lead to the app being blocked unintentionally.

How to Fix It:

To resolve this issue, you can disable the Block Device Settings feature in Strict Mode. Here’s how:

1. Open AppBlock.
2. Navigate to Strict Mode settings and deactivate Strict Mode.
3. Look for the option labeled “Block Device Settings”.
4. Disable this option.

Once this is done, your banking or payment apps should no longer be blocked and will be able to function properly.

In case you have set Strict Mode for a long period of time and need to urgently unblock AppBlock, please go to Contact support and select reason “Emergency unblocking” or in case of older versions of AppBlock “I need to unlock my device” for contacting us. We will send you a one-time code that will deactivate Strict Mode and delete the PIN code to enter AppBlock in case you set one up.

Unfortunately, we have not yet found a technology that allows us to reliably block apps in pop-up view or floating windows on all devices. However, we are continuously exploring solutions and hope to implement this functionality in the future.

Many apps allow you to disable the pop-up view or floating window feature within their settings, which may be worth considering. You can find guides online by searching for the specific app and terms like “floating window,” “pop-up,”or “window in window.”

In Strict Mode, you can use the option “Block recent apps” to prevent opening apps in pop-up view or floating windows from the recent apps menu. Additionally, locking AppBlock in recent apps may improve its ability to block pop-up windows reliably.

We appreciate your patience as we work toward a more robust solution!

To resolve your issue with AppBlock Premium, please follow these steps:

1. Ensure you are signed in to the same Google Play account used to purchase AppBlock Premium by navigating to the Google Play Store → Your profile picture → Payments and subscriptions → Subscriptions. If AppBlock is listed, you are signed in to the correct account. Otherwise, switch to the appropriate account. Then, go to the Troubleshooting section in AppBlock and tap “Restore purchases” at the bottom.
2. If restoring purchases did not resolve the issue, clear the Google Play Store cache by going to Settings → Applications → Play Store → Storage and cache → Clear storage. Close the settings, reopen the Google Play Store, close AppBlock (remove it from recent apps), and reopen it. You can also refer to our detailed guide on how to restore your purchase.
3. If none of the above works, try reinstalling AppBlock. If the problem persists, please contact our support team for further assistance.

If you cannot uninstall AppBlock, follow these steps:

1. Check Strict Mode Status:
   • Go to Strict Mode > Options and check if the “Disable AppBlock Uninstalling” feature is enabled.
2. Disable Strict Mode:
   • You’ll need to turn off Strict Mode first. If you don’t have access to the PIN code or Charger method and “block device settings” option is also turned on, this step may require
     contacting support.
3. Uninstall Through Device Settings:
   • If “Block Device Settings” is not enabled in Strict Mode:
     • Go to your device’s Settings > Device Admin Apps.
     • Disable AppBlock as a device admin app.
     • Proceed to uninstall AppBlock as usual.

If you’re still facing issues, reach out to our support team for assistance.

IWhen you force close AppBlock, the app shuts down completely and cannot block apps or websites. To resume blocking, you will need to restart the app manually. This issue may also occur if you use task killer software or automated backup tools.

To prevent blocking interruptions caused by force-stopping AppBlock, ensure the “Block device settings” option in Strict Mode is enabled, and Strict Mode is activated. This will block access to your device settings, preventing you from force-stopping AppBlock.

Unfortunately, it is not technically possible to block dual apps. The “second app” doesn’t really exist in the device, your device only sees it as one app and so it is invisible for AppBlock. We will keep our eyes open for new technologies, but currently, it just isn’t possible.

Unfortunately, with current technology, we cannot block the ultra power saving mode. Super saving mode (Ultra battery saver) stops apps from working, meaning that it turns off AppBlock and then we can’t block other apps. Some operating systems go against the Android best practices and can cause issues for apps. Sometimes you are able to add exceptions to the saving mode and adding AppBlock to those should stop it from being disabled. 

You can also use the “block device settings” option in Strict Mode to prevent you from enabling ultra power saving mode in settings.

If you’ve installed a new app and it’s not appearing on the list of apps to block, we recommend restarting your device. Occasionally, newly installed apps may take some time to appear in the app picker. Restarting your phone can help expedite this process and ensure the app is visible for blocking.

If your apps are not being blocked in split-screen mode, it’s likely because the split-screen blocking option is not enabled. Follow these steps to resolve the issue:

Steps to Enable Split-Screen Blocking:

1. Ensure that Accessibility permissions are fully granted for AppBlock.
2. Open the AppBlock app and navigate to Strict Mode.
3. Go to Options within Strict Mode.
4. Enable the setting “Block Split Screen.”

This will ensure that apps are blocked even when using split-screen mode. If you have further questions or need additional help, feel free to contact our support team!

Even though we designed AppBlock to be compatible with all devices, some phones might behave differently due to custom software modifications. Below, you’ll find guidance for the most common issues with specific brands and tips to resolve them. Always refer to in-app recommendations, error messages, or the Troubleshooting section for further help.

Searching for Your Device

• On a desktop, use CTRL+F (Windows) or CMD+F (Mac) to quickly locate your phone brand.
• On mobile, scroll manually to your brand or check the Help section on our website.

Note: Paths to settings or permissions may vary between models. If you can’t locate a specific option, search for your phone model and the desired setting online for more detailed instructions.

Huawei

Unfortunately, Huawei is one of the most troubled phone brands in the current market. Chinese vendors tend to ignore Android’s best practices and implement very bizarre custom modifications which make background tasks nearly impossible to run. This includes stable and reliable run of AppBlock as well.

Suggested steps:

Battery Settings:

• Phone Settings > Advanced Settings > Battery Manager > Set Power Plan to Performance.
• Phone Settings > Advanced Settings > Battery Manager > Protected apps > Mark AppBlock as Protected.
• Phone Settings > Apps > AppBlock > Battery > Enable Power-intensive prompt and Keep running after screen off.

Ignore Battery Optimizations:

• Phone Settings > Apps > Advanced (at the bottom) > Ignore optimizations > Allowed > All apps > Find AppBlock > Set to Allow.
• (For Huawei P9 Plus): Phone Settings > Apps > Settings > Special access > Ignore battery optimization > Select AppBlock.

Device Admin Mode:

• Enable AppBlock as a device administrator: AppBlock > Setting > CAPTCHA > Prevent escaping CAPTCHA. This may also prevent the system from killing AppBlock.

Note: Versions from AppGallery and Google Play may require different permissions. Review the onboarding process carefully and check the Troubleshoot section.

More information: Huawei Troubleshoot.

Xiaomi

Xiaomi might be the most troubled phone on today’s market. Chinese vendors tend to ignore Android best practices and implement very bizarre custom modifications which make background tasks nearly impossible to run.

The specific steps depend on which version of the MIUI you have.

Steps to Address Issues:

App Pinning:

If AppBlock isn’t working correctly, such as blocking features failing or Accessibility issues, try pinning it:

• Open the recent apps tray.
• Drag AppBlock downward to lock it, or tap the down arrow next to its name and select the “Lock” icon (on some devices).
• Once pinned, it won’t be removed from the background, even if you clear recent apps.
• To unpin and remove it, drag it downward again.

Battery Management:

• Settings > Advanced Settings > Battery Manager > Set Power Plan to Performance.
• Device Settings > Apps > AppBlock > Battery > Enable Power-intensive prompt and Keep running after screen off.

Additional Battery Management:

• Settings > Additional Settings > Battery & Performance > Manage apps’ battery usage > Switch Power Saving Modes to Off.
• Saving Power in the Background > Choose apps > AppBlock > Background Settings > No restrictions.

App Battery Saver:

• Go to Security > Battery > App Battery Saver > AppBlock, and set it to No restriction.

Auto-start:

• Open Security app > Permissions > Auto-start and enable Autostart for desired apps.

Device Admin Mode:

If all fails, enable AppBlock as a device administrator: AppBlock > Setting > CAPTCHA > Prevent escaping CAPTCHA. This can also help prevent the system from killing AppBlock.

Note: Avoid using Ultra Battery Saver mode on Xiaomi devices, as it stops most background apps from functioning correctly. While some models allow app exceptions, this mode may still cause minor blocking issues.

More information: Xiaomi Troubleshoot

OnePlus

OnePlus devices may encounter issues with AppBlock unless specific settings are adjusted to turn off battery optimizations.

Steps to Address Issues:

Battery Optimization:

• Go to System Settings > Apps > Gear Icon > Special Access > Battery Optimization.
• Warning: Recently, OnePlus phones may randomly revert this setting from “Not optimized” back to “Optimized.” Unfortunately, there is no current workaround, so you may need to periodically check and reset this setting. A bug report has been filed with OnePlus.

App Auto-Launch:

• Some OnePlus devices include an App Auto-Launch feature that prevents apps from running in the background. Disable this feature for AppBlock.

Additional Battery Management:

• Go to Phone Settings > Battery > Battery optimization.
• Switch to the All apps list (via the top menu).
• Locate AppBlock and set it to Don’t optimize.

NOTE: Some users have reported the need to disable Doze mode in Developer Options for proper functionality.

More information: OnePlus Troubleshoot

OnePlus 5 specific settings:

• Disable Settings > Battery > Battery optimization > (three dots) > Enhanced optimization. This may also be labeled Advanced optimization on some devices.

More information: OnePlus Troubleshoot

Samsung Galaxy

Some newer Samsung Galaxy models may cause issues with AppBlock running correctly. Below are key steps to address these problems:

App Power Monitor:

Samsung’s App Power Monitor can interfere with AppBlock’s functionality. To whitelist AppBlock and prevent issues:

• Open Settings > Device Maintenance > Battery.
• At the bottom, locate the list of most frequently used apps.
• Tap on Unmonitored apps at the very bottom.
• Tap the three-dot menu to add AppBlock to the list of unmonitored apps.

Alternatively, you can disable App Power Monitor entirely to avoid these restrictions, as it has minimal impact on battery life and may hinder the phone’s normal operation.

Optimize Battery Usage:

On other Samsung devices, the steps might differ:

• Go to Settings > Applications.
• Tap the three-dot menu (top right corner) > Special Access > Optimize Battery Usage.
• Find AppBlock in the list and ensure it is not selected.

Edge Lighting:

Note: If Edge Lighting is enabled for AppBlock, it may prevent the app from waking your screen when the alarm starts. To fix this, remove AppBlock from the Edge Lighting applications list.

Additional Help:

For more detailed guides on keeping permissions active and ensuring AppBlock runs smoothly, visit: Samsung Troubleshoot.

Oppo

Oppo devices often aggressively kill background services, including accessibility services, which can disrupt the functionality of apps like AppBlock. Follow these steps to prevent such issues:

Steps to Address Issues:

App Pinning in Recent apps:

Pin AppBlock to the recent apps screen to keep AppBlock running in the background:

• Open the recent apps tray.
• Tap the down arrow next to AppBlock to display options.
• Select the “Lock” icon.

Once pinned, AppBlock will remain in the background even if recent apps are cleared.

Battery Optimizations:

Disable battery optimizations for AppBlock:

• Open App Info (long-press the app icon and select “App Info”).
• Go to Battery Usage.
• Enable Run in the Background.

Auto-launch:

Ensure AppBlock launches automatically after restarting:

• Go to Settings > App Management > Auto-launch apps.
• Find AppBlock and toggle the switch to Allow.

More information: Oppo Troubleshoot

Vivo

Vivo devices often aggressively kill background services, including accessibility services, which can interfere with the proper functioning of AppBlock. Follow these steps to address the issue:

App Pinning in Recent Apps:

Pin AppBlock to the recent apps screen to keep AppBlock running in the background:

• Open the recent apps tray.
• Tap the down arrow next to the app name to display options.
• Select the “Lock” icon. This will keep AppBlock running in the background, even if you clear recent apps.

Disable Battery Optimizations:

• Open App Info (long press the app icon and select “App Info”).
• Go to Battery Usage and set it to Unrestricted.

Note: Avoid enabling Ultra Battery Saver mode on Vivo devices, as it terminates unnecessary background apps. While some models allow app exceptions, this mode may still cause minor blocking issues.

More information: Vivo Troubleshoot

Realme

Realme devices often kill background services, including accessibility services, which can disrupt the proper functioning of AppBlock. Follow these steps to address the issue:

App Pinning in Recent apps:

Pin AppBlock to the recent apps screen to keep AppBlock running in the background:

• Open the recent apps tray.
• Tap the down arrow next to the app name to display options.
• Select the Lock icon. This ensures AppBlock remains in the background, even after clearing recent apps.

Battery Management:

• Open Settings > Battery > App battery management.
• Select AppBlock and allow:
  • Background activity
  • Foreground activity
  • Auto-launch
• Navigate to Settings > Battery > Power saver options, and disable Sleep standby optimization.

More Information: Realme Troubleshoot

Meizu

Meizu devices are among the most problematic for running background apps. Chinese vendors often ignore Android best practices, implementing unusual custom modifications that make it nearly impossible to keep background tasks running reliably. This includes stable operation of AppBlock.

Suggested Steps:

Battery Management:

• Go to Settings > Advanced Settings > Battery Manager > Power Plan: Set to Performance.
• Device Settings > Advanced Settings > Battery Manager > Protected apps: Mark AppBlock as Protected.
• Device Settings > Apps > AppBlock > Battery: Enable Power-intensive prompt and Keep running after screen off.

Device Admin Mode:

If all else fails, enable AppBlock as a device administrator: AppBlock > Setting > CAPTCHA > Prevent escaping CAPTCHA. This can help prevent the system from killing AppBlock.

More information: Meizu Troubleshoot

Sony

Sony’s Stamina Mode significantly impacts the functionality of third-party apps, including AppBlock. Unfortunately, there is no workaround from our side. To ensure proper functionality, disable Stamina Mode or whitelist AppBlock in your settings.

Steps to Address Issues:

Battery Optimization:

• Go to Phone Settings > Battery.
• Tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
• Select Battery optimization > Apps > AppBlock.
• Disable optimization for AppBlock to allow it to run in the background.

More Information: Sony Troubleshoot

Nokia

Under certain circumstances, Nokia devices may behave differently from standard Android and place AppBlock on the list of apps with background restrictions, which can impact its functionality.

Steps to Address Issues:

Battery Management:

• Go to Phone Settings > Apps > Battery > AppBlock and ensure that no restrictions are applied.

More Information:
Nokia Troubleshoot

Android 8 (Oreo)

Android O has brought an option to limit background activity for specific apps. This will break alarms when enabled for AppBlock.

Please make sure that System settings > Apps > AppBlock > Battery > Background activity is enabled.

In case your location schedules do not activate, please try to extend your location radius, it should fix the issue. Sometimes a little delay in blocking can occur when the radius is too small. 

Eventually make sure you have granted all necessary permissions including the location permission for AppBlock and check if the location service is on. 

We’re aware that after updating to version 7.1.1 or 7.1.2, some websites and keywords may not be blocked as expected. We’re working on a fix that will be included in version 7.1.3, which we’ll release as soon as possible. In the meantime, if you remove the “Block Recent Apps” condition in Strict Mode, website blocking should work again. Once the update is available, please be sure to update AppBlock to fully resolve the issue.

We appreciate your patience and understanding. 

If you’ve downloaded a new app but it doesn’t appear in the list of apps to block, try restarting your device. After restarting, the app should show up in the picker.

If your authenticator app (such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, or any other) is being blocked even though you didn’t block it, the issue is likely related to the “Block Device Settings” feature being enabled in Strict Mode.

Why This Happens:

Authenticator apps often require access to certain device settings to function properly, especially when verifying your identity for apps and services. When AppBlock’s Block Device Settings feature is enabled, it restricts access to these settings, which can unintentionally block your authenticator.

How to Fix It:

To restore access to your authenticator app, you can disable the Block Device Settings feature in Strict Mode. Follow these steps:

1. Open AppBlock.
2. Navigate to Strict Mode settings and deactivate Strict Mode.
3. Locate the “Block Device Settings” option.
4. Disable this option.

This should allow your authenticator app to work without being blocked.

Still Having Issues?

In case you have set Strict Mode for a long period of time and need to urgently unblock AppBlock, please please go to Contact support and select reason “Emergency unblocking” or in case of older versions of AppBlock “I need to unlock my device” for contacting us. We will send you a one-time code that will deactivate Strict Mode and delete the PIN code to enter AppBlock in case you set one up.

If you’re experiencing issues with website blocking, here are some steps to help resolve it:

1. Ensure Your AppBlock is Up-to-Date: Make sure you have the latest version of AppBlock installed. Updates often include fixes for common issues.
2. Check Accessibility Permissions: Website blocking relies on accessibility permissions. Confirm that AppBlock has accessibility permission granted.
3. Review Troubleshooting Settings: Go to AppBlock > More > Troubleshooting, and make sure that autostart and battery optimizations are set correctly to allow AppBlock to function as expected.
4. Understand URL Blocking Limitations: AppBlock blocks websites by the main URL only. For example, blocking “Facebook.com/profile-john-smith” will block the main Facebook.com page as a whole. For specific keywords, use the “keywords blocking” option to block any site containing those terms within the URL.
5. Supported Browsers: AppBlock works best on supported browsers. If blocking doesn’t seem effective, try another browser to see if the issue is browser-related.
6. Reinstall and Restart: If issues persist, consider reinstalling AppBlock. We recommend creating a backup from the More menu before reinstalling. Restart your phone after reinstallation.

If the issue continues, please reach out to our support team for further assistance.

If you’re experiencing issues with usage limits not working, please follow these steps:

1. Ensure Your AppBlock is Up-to-Date: Make sure you have the latest version of AppBlock installed. Updates often include fixes for common issues.
2. Check Settings: Ensure your usage limit settings are configured correctly in AppBlock.
3. Reinstall and Restart: If the settings are correct but usage limits still aren’t working, try reinstalling AppBlock and then restarting your phone.
4. Contact Support for Further Assistance: If the problem persists, we’d need a bit more information to help troubleshoot effectively. Please contact our support team and describe the issue in detail. You may also send a short video (up to 20MB) demonstrating the issue to assist in identifying the cause.

If you’re unable to access the available settings in AppBlock, follow these steps:

1. Update AppBlock: Ensure you have the latest version of AppBlock installed, as updates often resolve issues with settings.
2. Check Strict Mode: If Strict Mode is activated, please deactivate it to be able to turn off and on the Available Settings. If you have set up PIN code or Charger unblocking, use one of these methods to disable Strict Mode on your own. If you need assistance deactivating Strict Mode and have not set up these methods, you can contact us via the contact form. Choose “Emergency unblocking” or in case of older versions of AppBlock “I need to unlock my device” for contacting us to receive a one-time unblocking code.
3. Reset Available Settings Option: Once Strict Mode is deactivated, go to AppBlock > Profile (More) > Settings, and toggle the “Show Available Settings” option off and back on again. This usually resolves the issue.

If the problem persists or occurs again, please reach out to us for further assistance.

In some cases, your launcher may be blocked due to the “Block Device Settings” feature in Strict Mode. To resolve this issue, follow these steps:

1. Open the AppBlock app.
2. Navigate to the Strict Mode settings.
3. Deactivate the “Block Device Settings” option.

This should prevent your launcher from being blocked and resolve the issue. If the problem persists, feel free to contact support for further assistance.

You can only restore a backup if you have previously created one from Profile (More) > Backup.

The backup feature relies on a stable internet connection. If you encounter the error “Something went wrong”, ensure your connection is stable and try again.

If the issue persists, wait a few minutes as it may be a temporary server problem. Should it continue for more than an hour, please contact our support team for further assistance.

If you notice that AppBlock is performing slower than expected, there are several factors that could be causing the issue. Here are some common reasons and potential solutions to improve its performance:

1. Background Restrictions

Many devices implement aggressive background app restrictions that might interfere with AppBlock’s performance. If AppBlock is being slowed down, it could be due to these restrictions.

• Solution: Disable battery optimization for AppBlock. The steps vary depending on your device brand. Check your phone’s Battery Settings or visit our troubleshoot guide for specific instructions.

2. Too Many Active Schedules

If you have a large number of schedules or overlapping conditions, it may affect the app’s responsiveness.

• Solution: Review your schedules and remove or simplify those that are unnecessary or redundant. Combining conditions into fewer schedules may help improve performance.

3. Insufficient System Resources

Your device’s available RAM and processing power could also impact AppBlock’s speed, especially if many apps are running in the background.

• Solution: Try closing unnecessary apps and restarting your device to free up resources or eventually uninstall apps you don’t use often.

4. Outdated App or OS

Using an outdated version of AppBlock or operating system may cause compatibility issues, resulting in slower performance.

• Solution: Ensure you have the latest version of AppBlock installed. You can check for updates on the Google Play Store or AppGallery. Also, make sure your device’s operating system is up to date.

5. Network Issues

Features like backup or blocking adult content rely on a stable internet connection. A slow or unstable connection can cause delays.

• Solution: Check your internet connection and switch to a more stable network if possible.

Please try reinstalling AppBlock and restart your device. If the issue persists, contact us and send us a short video (max 20MB) or screenshots of your blocking setup and provide us with more details about this issue. We will do our best to help you out. You may also check out the tips in Troubleshooting.

Traveling to a different time zone can occasionally disrupt AppBlock’s scheduling, causing unexpected behavior. In some cases, the app might mistakenly block apps for longer periods than intended—this issue can be particularly problematic in Strict Mode, where the blocking period may accidentally extend to more than 99 days.

We strongly advise against turning off or restarting your device while traveling across time zones, as this may cause unexpected behavior in the app.

Steps to Fix the Issue:

1. Deactivate Strict Mode Using Emergency Unblocking:
   • Open AppBlock.
   • Navigate to Help section and use the Emergency Unblocking reason for contacting us.
   • Follow the prompts to disable Strict Mode. This will allow you to regain control over your settings.
2. Reinstall AppBlock:
   • Once Strict Mode is deactivated, uninstall AppBlock from your device.
   • Reinstall the app from your app store (Google Play or AppGallery).
   • Set up your blocking schedule again. Ensure the new settings account for the time zone changes if needed.

Tips to Prevent Future Issues:

• Before traveling, adjust the time zone in your device settings and verify your AppBlock schedules to ensure they align correctly.
• If you’re frequently traveling, consider disabling Strict Mode temporarily during your trip to avoid extended locking periods.

On some devices, particularly Samsung, you may need to enable restricted settings before granting accessibility permissions. These permissions are essential for AppBlock to function correctly.

If the permissions dialog appears and AppBlock is greyed out, follow these steps:

1. Access the Accessibility Settings:
   Go to your device Settings > Accessibility > Installed apps.
   Tap on AppBlock (which will be greyed out).
2. Handle Restricted Settings:
   When the “Restricted settings” screen appears, tap OK.
3. Allow Restricted Settings:
   • Go back to Settings > Apps > AppBlock.
   • Open the 3 dots menu in the top-right corner.
   • Select Allow restricted settings and verify your identity (e.g., PIN, pattern, or biometric).
4. Enable Accessibility Permission:
   • Return to Settings > Accessibility > Installed apps.
   • Tap on AppBlock and switch it from off to on.
   • Confirm the Full Control dialog to grant permissions.

Once these steps are complete, AppBlock should function correctly with the required permissions enabled.

AppBlock blocks websites by identifying their URLs or specific keywords. However, when previewing sites in browsers, the URL may change dynamically, making it difficult for AppBlock to detect and block them effectively.

To improve blocking performance, we recommend manually adding such dynamic URLs or relevant keywords to your blocklist. This will ensure AppBlock can recognize and block the sites even when their URLs change during previews.