NFC Tags
Start with an NFC tag and scan the same tag again to stop.
12 ways to block distractions
Start manually, tap an NFC tag, scan a QR code, set a timer, or take an intentional break. Every strategy is included.
$0 forever
Open source
No locked features
QR Code/Barcode
Start with a code and scan the same code again to stop.
Manual
Start and stop directly in the app without scanning anything.
NFC + Manual
Start in the app, then scan an NFC tag when you are ready to stop.
QR/Barcode + Manual
Start in the app, then scan a QR code or barcode to stop.
NFC + Timer
Choose a duration and use an NFC tag if you need to stop early.
QR/Barcode + Timer
Choose a duration and scan a QR code or barcode to stop early.
Timer + Manual
Choose a duration and use the Stop button if you finish early.
NFC + Pause Timer
Scan an NFC tag for a timed pause without ending your session.
QR/Barcode + Pause Timer
Scan a code for a timed pause without ending your session.
Temporary Access + NFC
Allow a few short app opens, then use NFC to stop the session.
Temporary Access + QR
Allow a few short app opens, then scan a code to stop the session.
How it works
Get started in just 3 simple steps
1
Get a NFC tag or print a QR code
Use any NFC tag or print any QR code. You can get NFC tags online for under $1 each, or simply print any QR code from your computer.
2
Select the apps/websites you want to block
Create custom profiles in Foqos and choose which apps and websites to block. Set up different profiles for work, study, or bedtime.
3
Block distractions
Hide that tag or QR code, focus on your life and block those distractions. When your done, scan the QR code or tap the NFC tag to get back to your phone.
Why Choose Foqos Over Other App Blockers?
Compare price, activation methods, timers, and blocking flexibility
| Feature | Foqos | Brick | Unpluq | Blok |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | 100% Free | $99/device | $29.99/device | $59.99/device |
| Open Source | ||||
| NFC Support | ||||
| QR Code Support | ||||
| Timer + Physical Unlock | ||||
| Habit Tracking | ||||
| Website Blocking |
Comparison snapshot is based on publicly listed product details as of February 2026.
What people are saying
Join thousands of users building healthier digital habits
Better than any other blocking app I have tried
"Love this app. The many options for how to enable/disable blocking modes is exactly what I was looking for. I have one NFC tag that I scan on the way into my home office on work days and having to physically get up and go scan the tag again to access social media has helped me so much with distractions."
R
rahuggins
Amazing for ADHD and anxiety
"I struggle with answering messages sometimes (ADHD and anxiety) and Foqos is a big help by allowing me to schedule in a time each week to answer messages with Foqos on to keep me on track."
U
Anonymous User
Love this app and I'm glad it exists
"I really love the Foqos app and I've found that it's helped me stay productive and happier in the last two weeks of using it. I'd like to help support its development by sending y'all $10/buying you a coffee. I love the app and I'm glad it exists and is open source."
A
App Store User
Please never get rid of this app
"I just got it and I love it. If you're having trouble funding it and want to keep it running and want to keep it more-or-less 'free,' I'm sure you could easily charge $5 or even $10 one time charge for the app."
R
Reddit User
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free alternative to Brick, Unpluq, and Blok on iPhone?
Yes. Foqos is a 100% free, open‑source iPhone app blocker that uses NFC and QR codes to physically block distracting apps. Unlike hardware-first options like Brick, Unpluq, and Blok, Foqos never charges for features and includes more blocking strategies including timer-based blocking with physical unlock.
What's the best free app blocker for iPhone?
Foqos is a free app blocker for iPhone that offers NFC and QR code blocking, timer-based sessions with physical unlock, habit tracking, smart breaks, and Live Activities—all for free with no subscription or in-app purchases required. Rated 4.9/5 stars with over 5000 App Store reviews.
Is Foqos a free Brick alternative?
Yes. Foqos is a free, open-source Brick alternative for iPhone. Every Foqos feature is included, with no paid tiers, subscriptions, or in-app purchases.
How does Foqos compare to Unpluq?
Foqos covers many of the core workflows people look for in Unpluq, while staying free and open source. Foqos supports physical blocking with both NFC and QR codes, and offers digital and physical blocking strategies at no cost.
How does Foqos block apps and websites on iOS?
Foqos uses Apple's Screen Time API to block apps and websites. Create custom profiles, select which apps/sites to block, then activate them manually, via NFC tag tap, QR code scan, or with a timer. You can require a physical tag or code to unlock, making it harder to bypass than pure software solutions.
Does Foqos require a subscription?
No. Foqos is 100% free forever—no subscription, no in-app purchases, no hidden costs. It's open‑source and supported by the community. Unlike competitors that charge $5-$8/month or $99 for hardware, every feature in Foqos is completely free.
Can I use cheap NFC tags with Foqos?
Yes! Foqos works with any NFC tag (NTAG213 or similar), which cost under $1 each online. You don't need expensive hardware like Brick's $99 device. You can also use completely free QR codes instead—just print them from your computer or display them on another device.
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