Hi! Just downloaded the app and I am really missing the feature to block apps based on time usage instead of just sessions.
I work as a freelancer / content creator and my working hours is different from each day.
Thanks for sharing this! we are actually just working on this now. What do you think of the designs below?
This is now in the app! Hope you enjoy.
I use this feature a lot but I still feel it is missing the x minutes per hour feature .
I have my app limit set to 15 min and then blocked for 45. But if I use 14 minutes during the day and then I want to use it before bed I will only get 1 minute and then it blocks for 45 minutes.
I think the 15 mins resets every day anyway but it would be nice to customize the reset window.
3 Likes
If a certain configurable amount of screen time for the day or week or whatever configurable amount of time is exceeded, a session would then begin.
1 Like
This is exactly the primary feature I want. I want to be able to use Instagram for 5 minutes every hour. The way it’s currently set up I will just continue waiting for the time limit to count down to give myself a break which just keeps wasting more time.
You can set an app limit for 5 minutes which will block the app(s) for a duration of 1 hour.
Analyzing the Feature Request
Key Points:
- Time limits within a schedule: Ability to set specific time limits for apps during different parts of the day.
- Impulse control: Need for a feature to prevent binge usage of apps.
- Schedule-based usage: Desire to limit app usage based on predefined time blocks.
Potential Challenges:
- App detection and tracking: Ensuring accurate identification and tracking of app usage.
- Customization: Allowing users to create highly personalized schedules.
- Enforcement: Implementing effective mechanisms to prevent users from exceeding time limits.
Proposed Solution: Scheduled App Limits
Core Functionality:
- Schedule creation: Users can create custom schedules with multiple time blocks.
- App selection: Users can choose which apps to include in the schedule.
- Time limit setting: For each app, users can set a specific time limit within each time block.
- Real-time monitoring: The app will track app usage and notify users when they are approaching their limits.
-
Enforcement: If a user exceeds their limit, the app can implement various strategies, such as:
- Blocking app access: Temporarily preventing the user from using the app.
- Notifications: Sending reminders or alerts to discourage excessive usage.
- Visual cues: Providing visual indicators (e.g., progress bars) to show remaining time.
Additional Features:
- Pause/resume: Allow users to temporarily pause or resume their schedule.
- Exceptions: Enable users to set exceptions for certain situations (e.g., work, emergencies).
- Customization: Offer options for customizing the appearance and behavior of the app.
- Integration with other features: Consider integrating with other productivity features like task management or goal setting.
Technical Considerations:
- App detection: Use Android’s built-in APIs or third-party libraries to accurately identify and track app usage.
- Enforcement mechanisms: Implement robust mechanisms to prevent users from circumventing time limits (e.g., disabling notifications, using alternative apps).
- User experience: Design a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and understand.
Conclusion:
By implementing a “Scheduled App Limits” feature, Opal can address the specific needs of users like Lara who struggle with impulse control and excessive app usage. This feature would provide a valuable tool for managing digital well-being and promoting healthier app habits.