ExcerLock: Move to Unlock Apps
Exercise to Unlock Screen Time
About
This app encourages physical activity by locking chosen apps until you meet exercise goals like walking a certain distance or reaching a step count. It helps build consistency for fitness routines and reduces screen time by linking app access to movement.
What's New in ExcerLock
1.0.1
October 18, 2026
New: Screen Time Bank. Walk or train to earn Points, then spend them in the Shop on screen time. The Bank only drains while your locked apps are open, and your apps lock again at zero. Walking now keeps locking and unlocking your apps all day, even after ExcerLock has been in the background for hours. - With Location set to Always, ExcerLock restarts in the background if iOS closes it during a walking Condition. - When you stop walking, your apps lock again within about a minute. - If iOS closes ExcerLock and it can't restart, a notification tells you, and one tap turns walking detection back on.
MoreSubscriptions & In-App Purchases
Premium Annual
Earn screen time by moving. Billed yearly.
Developer apps
FAQ
How does ExcerLock work to unlock apps?
ExcerLock unlocks your chosen apps when you meet specific exercise conditions. These include walking a set distance, reaching a daily step goal, or arriving at a saved gym location. Apps re-lock when you stop moving or leave the gym.
What exercise activities can I use with ExcerLock?
You can use ExcerLock for walking, whether outdoors or on a treadmill, as long as your phone is with you. It also supports unlocking apps upon arrival at a saved gym or after spending a set amount of time at the gym.
Does ExcerLock track my location for gym detection?
Yes, ExcerLock uses your phone's location to detect when you arrive at a saved gym. This feature requires Location services to be set to 'Always' for hands-free gym detection. All location data is processed on your device.
How does ExcerLock ensure privacy with app selection?
ExcerLock utilizes Apple's private app picker, meaning it never sees which specific apps you choose to lock. The blocking enforcement is handled by Apple Screen Time, ensuring your app choices remain private and secure.
Can ExcerLock be used for parental control?
No, ExcerLock is designed as a self-control tool for individual users to manage their own phone usage and fitness habits. It is not intended as a parental-control application.
What are the requirements to use ExcerLock?
ExcerLock requires an iPhone with iOS 17.4 or later and access to Screen Time. Walking detection needs Motion & Fitness permission, and hands-free walking/gym auto-detect requires Location services to be set to 'Always'.
Is ExcerLock free to use?
ExcerLock is free to download and use with its core features. Premium features are available through an auto-renewable subscription, with pricing details shown before purchase.
How often is ExcerLock updated?
The latest version of ExcerLock is 1.0, and it was last updated on October 1, 2026. Specific update frequency is not detailed, but the app is available on iPhone with iOS 17.4 or later.
