How to use Strict Mode
Strict Mode is AppBlock’s commitment layer. Once activated, it prevents you from turning off your blocks, editing your schedules, or uninstalling AppBlock — even when temptation hits.
What Strict Mode does
When Strict Mode is active, you can’t:
- Turn off active schedules or Quick Blocks.
- Edit or delete your blocking rules.
- Remove apps or websites from your blocklist.
- Uninstall AppBlock.
To unlock, you’ll need to fulfill the unlock condition you chose when activating Strict Mode.
How to activate Strict Mode
- Open AppBlock.
- Go to Strict Mode.
- Choose an unlock method (see options below).
- Tap Advanced options to fine-tune what Strict Mode restricts.
- Tap Activate lock.
Unlock methods
- Cooldown – when you try to unlock Strict Mode, you have to wait a set amount of time before the unlock takes effect.
- Timer – Strict Mode stays on for a set period of time and unlocks automatically when it ends.
- Follow schedules – Strict Mode is only active while your blocking schedules are running.
- Approval – ask a trusted person to approve your unlock request. The strongest option for serious commitments.
- PIN – set a code you’ll need to enter to unlock.
- Charger – Strict Mode stays active until you plug your phone into a charger.
How strict should Strict Mode be?
In Advanced options, you can pick exactly what Strict Mode locks down:
- Lock blockings in app – you won’t be able to edit, pause, or delete your blockings in AppBlock.
- Disable app uninstalling – you won’t be able to uninstall any apps, including AppBlock itself.
- Disable installation of new apps – hides the App Store so you can’t install new apps.
- Prevent time change – you won’t be able to change your device’s time.
- Lock Face ID & Passcode – you won’t be able to change your device’s Face ID and Passcode settings.
Recommendations
- For your first time, choose PIN or Charger so you can disable Strict Mode if something feels off.
- For serious focus goals, use Approval Contact or a long Timer.
- Avoid setting up a complicated Strict Mode setup right before an important event.
Final tip
Strict Mode works best when you commit to it ahead of time. Set it up when you’re feeling motivated — not when you’re already trying to resist temptation.
