# BarBlock: Barcode App Blocker — Block apps with any barcode > Barcode-based app blocker for reducing screen time and improving focus. (iPhone/iPad app by NAVON HAIM SOUSSAN.) - Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/barblock-barcode-app-blocker/id6757250972 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`) - Developer: [NAVON HAIM SOUSSAN](https://appshunter.io/developer/1859059122) - Category: Productivity, Utilities - Price: Free (on sale, was $0.99) - Rating: 5.00/5 from 11 App Store ratings · 6 written reviews indexed - Age rating: 4+ - Requires: iOS 15.1 · 15 MB - Languages: American English - Released: 2026-01-14 - Data updated: 2026-08-08 - Monetization: paid - User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/barblock-barcode-app-blocker/id6757250972/reviews.md ## What is BarBlock? BarBlock reduces screen time by adding real-world friction to app blocking. Instead of relying on willpower or screentime limits, you lock selected apps by scanning a barcode you already have, such as one on a book, food package, etc. Those apps remain blocked until you scan the same barcode again, creating a deliberate pause before you can open distracting apps. That brief interruption helps break automatic habits and makes phone use a conscious choice. Setup is simple. Choose the apps you want to block, scan any barcode, and the apps stay locked until you rescan it. There are no extra devices to carry and nothing new to buy. BarBlock focuses on a minimal, privacy-first design. There are no subscriptions, no in-app purchases, no accounts, and no sign-ups. You can block an unlimited number of apps, the app works fully offline, and all data is stored locally on your device. Nothing is tracked, collected, or sent to external servers. This is designed for people who want to reduce screen time, users who bypass traditional app blockers, and anyone looking for a simple, reliable focus tool without tracking or complexity. ## Key features - Block apps by scanning real-world barcodes - Unlock apps by rescanning the same barcode - Reduces screen time and automatic phone use - Privacy-first design, no accounts or sign-ups - Works offline, all data stored locally - Unlimited app blocking ## Recent user reviews (6 of 6) All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/barblock-barcode-app-blocker/id6757250972/reviews.md ### 5/5 — Super helpful *2026-08-05* Glad a simple solution for this was thought of. No need to pay for something fancy like brick ### 5/5 — Literally a life saver *2026-06-30* God bless you for this app, I was looking for all sorts of devices and things to buy to curb my scrolling and the bills were just tacking up in my mind. Finding this app has been amazing. Thank you thank you thank you, you are truly doing great in the world. **Developer response:** So glad to hear that it’s helping you out! ### 5/5 — Super easy to use! *2026-05-26* If I scan my barcode before leaving in the morning, it forces me to lock in all day. My screen time is going down and I’m sure my eye health appreciates it (and so will my grades)! ### 5/5 — Changed my life *2026-05-24* This app does exactly what it intends to — and for what reason, it has drastically improved my life quality and nipped my mindless instagram use in the bud. It is amazing. ### 5/5 — Super Effective! *2026-04-21* It's super effective at motivating you to be productive, especially if you choose the barcode to be something far away. ### 5/5 — Great product, helped me stop scrolling the news *2026-01-15* I love BarBlock. For months, my biggest distraction has been news alerts appearing on my home screen. Much as I want to stay informed, when I’m working on something that requires real concentration, those alerts get in the way. BarBlock lets me avoid the temptation to check the news by adding just enough friction (using barcodes I already have) to stop mindless checking. The interface is smooth, the blocking and unblocking process is simple, and there’s no need to purchase any external product. I highly recommend it. ## Frequently asked questions about BarBlock ### How does BarBlock work to block apps? BarBlock allows you to select specific apps to block. Once chosen, you scan any real-world barcode (like from a book or food package) to lock them. The apps remain inaccessible until you scan that same barcode again. ### Is BarBlock free to use? BarBlock is a paid app, priced at $0.99. It offers a one-time purchase with no additional subscriptions or in-app purchases. ### Does BarBlock have ads? No, BarBlock is ad-free. It is designed with a privacy-first approach and does not contain any advertisements. ### What devices does BarBlock support? BarBlock is currently supported on iPhone and iPod devices. It is designed for iOS users looking to manage their app usage. ### How often is BarBlock updated? The latest version, 1.1.3, was released on February 26, 2026, indicating recent development activity. Updates aim to improve functionality and reliability. ### Can I block an unlimited number of apps with BarBlock? Yes, BarBlock allows you to block an unlimited number of applications. There are no restrictions on how many apps you can choose to manage. ### Is my data safe with BarBlock? BarBlock prioritizes user privacy. All data is stored locally on your device, and nothing is tracked, collected, or sent to external servers. It requires no accounts or sign-ups. ### What is the age rating for BarBlock? BarBlock has an age rating of 4+, making it suitable for a wide range of users. This rating suggests it contains no mature content. ## Version history (last 5 releases) ### 1.2.0 — 2026-07-02 New barcode labeling feature. ### 1.1.7 — 2026-06-21 Review button ### 1.1.6 — 2026-05-04 Fixed spacing issue on the main page. ### 1.1.5 — 2026-04-29 Updated text and usage instructions. New promo images. ### 1.1.3 — 2026-02-26 Modified permissions screen to say continue instead of grant permissions. 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User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-08.*