Help

Question 1

I don't see my premium after the recent update

Accepted Answer

We apologize for the trouble you’re experiencing! We’re currently transitioning to a new billing system for managing premium subscriptions, and during this process, some users may get logged out of their premium features if they aren’t signed in to the app—especially if you're using AppBlock on multiple devices.

Please try these steps in this specific order:

1. Check Your Google Play Account

Open the Google Play Store > Profile picture > Payments & subscriptions → Subscriptions.

If AppBlock isn’t listed, switch accounts by tapping the arrow next to your name > Select the correct account or add another one.

2. Clear Google Play Store Data

Press and hold the Play Store icon > App info > Storage & cache > Clear data.

Remove AppBlock from recent apps and reopen the Play Store.

3. Make sure you're signed in AppBlock app

In AppBlock, go to Profile (More) > Sign in or create an account.

4. Restore Purchase in app

If signing in did not fix the problem, go to Profile (More) > Troubleshooting > Restore Purchase.

In case the problem persisted, please contact us and select "Problem with Premium" as a reason.

Question 2

I have a premium subscription on Android, how can I make it work on iOS?

Accepted Answer

Starting with version 7.1.14, you can use your AppBlock account to access your premium subscription on both Android and iOS devices. Here’s how:

First, log into the AppBlock app on the device where you initially purchased the premium subscription (Android). Make sure you’re signed into the Google Play account used for the original purchase and also log into AppBlock app with your app account.

Then, on your other device (iOS), log into the same AppBlock account. This will activate your premium subscription on both devices.

If you're using an older version of AppBlock, please provide the order ID of your current Android premium subscription (this can be found in the confirmation email sent by the Google Play Store on the day of purchase) so we can issue a refund for the remaining portion of your Android subscription. You can then purchase a new subscription on iOS. If you’re interested in this option, please contact us with your order ID, and we’ll proceed with the refund process.

Question 3

Why are you blocking my settings?

Accepted Answer

In case your settings app is blocked, you must have enabled this option in Strict Mode. When you activate Strict Mode and select "block device settings", it restricts access to your settings.In case you cannot wait till the Strict Mode is off and need to deactivate Strict Mode immediately to get access to your settings, please contact us and choose “I need help with unblocking” as a reason for your message.

If you frequently need access to settings, you might want to consider turning off the "block device settings" option before reactivating Strict Mode. :)

Question 4

Why is my UI Home and Recent apps blocked?

Accepted Answer

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

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.

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.

Question 5

Why are apps I didn't block being blocked?

Accepted Answer

If apps you didn’t intend to block are being restricted, it’s usually due to a settings issue. Here’s how to fix it:

Check Your Blocking Settings:

Schedules: Ensure no schedule is unintentionally blocking apps.

Quick Block: Confirm Quick Block isn’t activated, as it blocks all apps with one tap.

Restart Your Phone: A quick restart often resolves minor issues.

Reinstall AppBlock: If the problem persists, reinstalling AppBlock can help.

Still having trouble? Contact our support team—we’re here to help!

Question 6

Why can I still access apps/websites that should be blocked?

Accepted Answer

If apps or websites that should be blocked are still accessible, here are a few steps to troubleshoot:

Check Your Blocking Settings:

Schedules: Make sure a schedule is active and correctly set to block the intended apps or websites.

Quick Block: Confirm Quick Block is enabled if you’re relying on it to block everything temporarily.

Check Permissions:

Accessibility Permissions: For website blocking, AppBlock needs specific permissions.

Check Troubleshooting: Go to the troubleshooting section in settings to make sure all required permissions are granted.

Restart Your Phone: Restarting can often help if the blocks aren’t functioning as expected.

Reinstall AppBlock: Reinstalling can refresh settings and resolve lingering issues.

If the issue continues, please reach out to our support team—we’re here to help!

Question 7

My mobile banking app/payment app/wallet is blocked, but I didn't block it

Accepted Answer

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:

Open AppBlock.

Navigate to Strict Mode settings and deactivate Strict Mode.

Look for the option labeled "Block Device Settings".

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.

Question 8

My accessibility keeps turning off. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

We're sorry to hear about the accessibility issues you're experiencing. This is often related to how some operating systems handle background services. Here are a few steps that may help resolve this:

Keep AppBlock Locked in Recent Apps: When AppBlock is removed from your recent apps, the accessibility service may be turned off. To prevent this, hold down the AppBlock icon in your recent apps and select the "lock" option. This keeps it running in the background.

Toggle Accessibility: On some devices, simply turning the accessibility setting off and back on can restore it, on others, restart of your device may help re-enable it.

Enable Key Settings in Troubleshooting: Make sure you've enabled settings like autostart and adjusted battery optimization for AppBlock. Following all steps in the Troubleshooting section can also improve performance.

If these steps don’t fully resolve the issue, please reach out for further assistance.

Question 9

Can I use my Premium version on other devices?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use AppBlock Premium on multiple devices! Just make sure you’re signed in with the same Google Play account you used for the purchase, and you’ll have access to all premium features on your other Android devices.

To get started, download AppBlock on each device and log in with your account to enjoy Premium benefits on all of them. If the premium features aren’t showing up, go to AppBlock > Profile (More) > Troubleshooting > Restore Purchases to refresh your access.

For devices on different platforms (Android and iOS), ensure you have the latest version of the app on both. Sign in with the same AppBlock account on each device, and you should see your premium subscription on both. If not, try the “Restore Purchases” option on each device as well.

Question 10

Which browsers are supported by AppBlock?

Accepted Answer

These are the supported browsers:

Chrome, Chrome Beta, Opera, Opera Beta, Opera Mini, Opera Mini Beta, Opera Touch, Huawei Browser, UC Browser, UC Mini, UC Turbo, CM Browser, Dolphin, Firefox, Firefox Beta, Microsoft Edge, Ecosia, Phoenix, Puffin, Maxthon Browser, Mint Browser, Via, Kiwi Browser, Nox, DuckDuckGo, Bromite, Spin browser.

In case you are using a browser that is not on this list, you can either block it as an app or turn on the “block unsupported browsers” in Extra options.

Question 11

AppBlock does not work in Pop-up view/Floating windows

Accepted Answer

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!

Question 12

Can you add another feature to AppBlock extensions?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We're always looking to improve our product based on customer feedback. If you have any specific features in mind, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We would be more than happy to discuss your ideas further and see how we can incorporate them into our app. :)

Question 13

Do you have AppBlock for PC/macOS?

Accepted Answer

Currently, we offer a Chrome extension that helps you stay focused and manage distractions while browsing the web. However, we understand the importance of expanding our platform to other devices, including PC. Rest assured, we have plans to develop an AppBlock version for PC in the future. If you have any suggestions or specific features you'd like to see, please feel free to contact us. We appreciate your support!

Question 14

Are AppBlock extensions free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have made all AppBlock extensions free to use with all features unlocked! :)

Question 15

What browsers support AppBlock extensions?

Accepted Answer

At this time, you can download and use extensions on Chrome, Safari and Edge. We are currently developing extensions for Opera and Firefox as well.

Want to know more about supported extensions? Check it out here!

AppBlock extension for Chrome.AppBlock extension for Safari.AppBlock extension for Edge.

Question 16

Do AppBlock extensions work in incognito mode?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our extensions work in incognito mode. However, you will have to set it up. You can find the step-by-step instructions with option to copy the path directly on the extension page. You can past copied path into url search bar. If you cannot have trouble finding it, you can follow paths down bellow.

Chrome extension: Extensions --> Manage extensions --> Details --> Allow in Incognito Mode

Safari extension:Safari --> Preferences --> Extensions --> AppBlock --> Allow in Private BrowsingEdge extension:Extensions --> Manage extensions --> Details --> Allow in Incognito Mode

Question 17

Can I synchronize my extension with the app version?

Accepted Answer

Currently, we do not support synchronization with app versions, however, we plan to implement this in a future. :)

Question 18

Can I pause the blocking on AppBlock extensions?

Accepted Answer

Of course, you can pause the blocking any time! You can pause Schedule blocking by clicking on the 3 dots at the right side of the specific Schedule and selecting “Pause” option. For pausing QuickBlock, you will have to click only at the “Pause” button.

Question 19

Does AppBlock extension have dark mode?

Accepted Answer

Today, we do not provide dark mode but we plan to include special switcher to change the theme! :)

Question 20

I don't see my premium and need to restore it

Accepted Answer

If you're using the same Apple ID, you should be able to restore your subscription. Simply go to AppBlock > Profile > Restore Purchase. After tapping that, AppBlock should recognize your premium status. If you don’t see "Profile," you might be using an older version—go to AppBlock > More > Restore Purchase instead. We recommend updating to the latest version of AppBlock to enjoy all the new features.

If you encounter any issues, you can also try going to the premium buying page and tapping "Restore Purchases" under the "Other options" button.

If these steps don't work, please follow the Apple Support Guide.

Question 21

How to block Screen Time on iOS17 with AppBlock

Accepted Answer

Blocking Screentime on devices with iOS17:

Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. This native iOS app allows you to create a sequence of actions from different apps that can be triggered with a single tap.

Tap on 'Automation' at the bottom, then 'New Automation'.

Now, select 'App'. This is where you’ll specify the application you wish to block (like Settings). Once selected, make sure 'Is Closed' is marked, choose “Run Inmidiately” and confirm your choice tapping on Next.

Tap on 'New Blank Automation' and 'Add Action'

Proceed to tap on 'Scripting', and then 'Open App'.

In the 'Open App' window, tap on 'App', and select 'Shortcuts' from the list.

Your automation is ready! Hit 'Done' to save it.

The next step is to incorporate AppBlock. Navigate to the AppBlock app, add the Shortcuts app to your Quick Block blocklist, and activate the blocking.

Go to settings > Screen Time > When you try to turn off the Screen Time permissions for AppBlock, the Shortcut will navigate you to the blocking screen.Voluntary step: Activate Strict Mode in AppBlock. This ensures that the blocking remains active, eliminating any chance of bypassing it.

https://youtu.be/d-v4F9c87d4

Question 22

How to block Settings on iOS17 with AppBlock

Accepted Answer

Blocking Settings on devices with iOS17:

Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. This native iOS app allows you to create a sequence of actions from different apps that can be triggered with a single tap.

Tap on ‘Automation’ at the bottom, then ‘New Automation’.

Now, select ‘App’. This is where you’ll specify the application you wish to block (like Settings). Once selected, make sure ‘Is Opened‘ is marked, choose “Run Inmidiately” and confirm your choice tapping on Next.

Tap on ‘New Blank Automation’ and ‘Add Action’

Proceed to tap on ‘Scripting’, and then ‘Open App’.

In the ‘Open App’ window, tap on ‘App’, and select ‘Shortcuts’ from the list.

Your automation is ready! Hit ‘Done’ to save it.

The next step is to incorporate AppBlock. Navigate to the AppBlock app, add the Shortcuts app to your Quick Block blocklist, and activate the blocking.

Go to Settings. Once you try to open it, the blocking screen will appear.Voluntary step: Activate Strict Mode in AppBlock. This ensures that the blocking remains active, eliminating any chance of bypassing it.

https://youtube.com/shorts/dk6--i4sRVQ?feature=share

Question 23

My apps are still blocked even though my schedules are inactive

Accepted Answer

If your scheduled blocks aren’t working as expected, you can refresh the blocking settings within the AppBlock app. Here’s how:

On appBlock version 3.7.0 and older:

Open AppBlock: Launch the AppBlock application on your device.

Navigate to the Blocking Tab: Tap on the "Blocking" tab within the app interface.

Pull to Refresh: Simply swipe down on the screen to initiate the refresh process.

Once completed, a notification stating "Blocking refreshed" will appear at the bottom of your screen.

On AppBlock version > 3.8.0:

Open AppBlock: Launch the AppBlock application on your device.

Navigate to the Blocking Tab: Tap on the “Blocking” tab within the app interface.

Tap at the refresh icon: Simply tap at the icon in the top right corner to refresh the blockings.

This refresh feature ensures that your blocking settings are up to date and functioning correctly, resolving any issues with app access according to your schedules.

Question 24

I need to unblock my apps/websites

Accepted Answer

First, let's determine what is blocking your access.

If a Schedule/Quick Block is blocking You: The easiest solution is to simply change the blocking parameters within the schedule.

If you are in Strict Mode: The deactivation condition must be fulfilled before you can unblock your apps or websites. We currently offer 5 deactivation conditions: Charger, PIN code, Approval, Cooldown, and None (Timer + Follow Schedules).

Emergency situation: If you're in an emergency and have the Follow Schedules/Timer condition applied with no way to deactivate Strict Mode, please contact support and select the reason "Emergency unblocking" or "I need to unlock my device" on older versions of AppBlock. We will send you a one-time code that will deactivate Strict Mode and delete the PIN code to access AppBlock, if you have set one up.

If you encounter any other issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help!

Question 25

I have a Premium subscription on iOS, how can I make it work on Android?

Accepted Answer

At this time, it is not possible to transfer or share your Premium subscription between iOS and Android devices. Due to platform limitations, subscriptions purchased on iOS cannot be directly applied to Android devices, and vice versa.

However, we understand the inconvenience this may cause and want to offer a solution. If you decide to subscribe to the Premium version on your Android device, we can refund 50% of your Android subscription cost.

To take advantage of this offer, simply subscribe to the Premium version on your Android device and then send us the GPA order ID for your Android purchase. Once we receive your order ID, we'll process the refund for 50% of your subscription cost.

We appreciate your understanding and are actively working on a multi-platform solution to make this process easier in the future. In the meantime, feel free to reach out to our support team if you have any further questions or need assistance.

Question 26

The "Other" category shows a system screen crash when I open it

Accepted Answer

We understand how frustrating it is when the system screen crashes, preventing you from blocking apps. Unfortunately, these crashes are tied to the system's Screen Time functionality and aren't caused by our app.

To avoid this issue, we recommend using the search bar instead of the "Other" category to block apps and websites. If the screen crashes in the search bar as well, try typing an emoji before entering the app name to help prevent it. Once the app name is entered, you can delete the emoji and proceed.

Question 27

The search bar in blocklist shows "system screen has crashed"

Accepted Answer

We understand how frustrating it is when the search bar in AppBlock doesn't work. This issue is often linked to the system's Screen Time functionality, which our app relies on, and it affects other blocking apps as well.

As a workaround, try typing an emoji before entering the app name in the search bar to avoid  the crash. Once the app name is entered, you can delete the emoji and proceed.

Question 28

Apps that I did not block are being blocked

Accepted Answer

If apps that you did not block are being blocked, refreshing your blocking settings in the AppBlock app may resolve the issue. Here’s how:

For AppBlock version 3.7.0 and older:

Open AppBlock: Launch the AppBlock app on your device.

Navigate to the Blocking Tab: Tap on the “Blocking” tab.

Pull to Refresh: Swipe down on the screen to refresh. A “Blocking refreshed” notification will appear at the bottom once completed.

For AppBlock version 3.8.0 and newer:

Open AppBlock: Launch the AppBlock app on your device.

Navigate to the Blocking Tab: Tap on the “Blocking” tab.

Tap the Refresh Icon: Tap the refresh icon in the top right corner to update your blockings.

Refreshing the settings helps ensure that only the apps you've selected are being blocked, correcting any unintended blockages.If refreshing the settings doesn’t resolve the issue, please feel free to contact our support team for further assistance.

Question 29

Apps should be blocked but I can still access them

Accepted Answer

If your apps should be blocked but you can still access them, please refresh the blocking settings within the AppBlock app to resolve the issue. Here’s how:

For AppBlock version 3.7.0 and older:

Open AppBlock: Launch the AppBlock app on your device.

Navigate to the Blocking Tab: Tap on the “Blocking” tab.

Pull to Refresh: Swipe down on the screen to refresh. A “Blocking refreshed” notification will appear at the bottom once completed.

For AppBlock version 3.8.0 and newer:

Open AppBlock: Launch the AppBlock app on your device.

Navigate to the Blocking Tab: Tap on the “Blocking” tab.

Tap the Refresh Icon: Tap the refresh icon in the top right corner to update your blockings.

This refresh process should help enforce the blocking settings, ensuring that apps are properly blocked according to your schedules. If the refresh does not resolve the issue, please contact our support and send us a short video (max 20MB) showing your blocking settings, so we can assist you further.

Question 30

Why can't I block my device settings?

Accepted Answer

Blocking device settings directly is technically impossible because Apple does not allow any third-party app to block access to device settings. However, you can still block access to settings using the Shortcuts feature on your device.

For detailed instructions on how to do this, please refer to the following guides:

How to Block Settings on iOS 16 and older with AppBlock

How to Block Settings on iOS 17 with AppBlock

How to Block Settings on iOS 18 with AppBlock

These guides will walk you through the steps to block settings effectively using Shortcuts on your device.

On iOS 16 and 17 you can also block only Screen Time permissions with Shortcuts:

How to Block Screen Time on iOS 16 and older with AppBlock

How to Block Screen Time  on iOS 17 with AppBlock

Question 31

I have purchased Android premium, switched to iOS and cannot restore it

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, it is not possible to transfer your premium subscription from Google Play to iOS, as this is not supported by either Google or Apple.

However, there is an alternative. If you provide the order ID of your current Android premium subscription (this can be found in the confirmation email sent by the Google Play Store on the day of purchase), we can issue a refund for the remaining portion of your Android subscription. You can then purchase a new subscription on iOS.If you’re interested in this option, please contact us with your order ID, and we’ll proceed with the refund process.

AppBlock on Extensions

FAQs

Can you add another feature to AppBlock extensions?

Do you have AppBlock for PC/macOS?

Are AppBlock extensions free?

What browsers support AppBlock extensions?

Do AppBlock extensions work in incognito mode?

Can I synchronize my extension with the app version?

Can I pause the blocking on AppBlock extensions?

Does AppBlock extension have dark mode?

Didn't find the answer to your question?