Habits First

Habits First

Earn your apps back

114 ratings
64 reviews
Free
In-App Purchases

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • August 20, 2026
  • September 21, 2026

Features

Background Location Access

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About

This app helps you build healthy habits by blocking distracting social media apps until you complete your daily goals. It uses the Premack principle to reinforce desired behaviors, offering flexible tracking and commitment options. The core functionality is free, with an optional one-time purchase for advanced integrations.

✓Blocks social media apps
✓Tracks custom habits (walks, workouts, reading)
✓Integrates with health trackers
✓Flexible blocking schedules and locations
✓Commitment locks for long-term goals
✓Optional one-time purchase for advanced features
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What's New in Habits First

2.2.2

September 21, 2026

Self Paced Unlock You can now save up your minutes after you unlock. Earn 15 minutes, use them up spread out throughout the day. New Block Page Redesigned The new block page is redesigned to be clearer and easier to use for new users. The legacy picker is still available. Add multiple manual habits per block You can now add more than one manual habit or time tracker to any given block. Block Explicit Content You can now block explicit content in the browser permanently in advanced settings. HABITS PRO Duolingo joins Habits First! Simply enter your username and use your daily XP to earn your apps back. Webhooks You can now create custom webhooks so you can make any custom habits and apps work with Habits First. Linked sources You can now combine multiple sources into one habit tracker. Track your immersion from every place you watch content.

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In-App Purchases

$9.99

Habits Pro

Anki, Audiobookshelf, Chess.com and Shortcuts.

User reviews

Best App to Limit Screen Time

Finally someone who cares to make a helpful app with no strings attached when they say free. Truly an awesome app and super easy to use.

this is the BEST screentime app

I’ve tried almost ALL of the screen time apps on the app store, and none of them worked for me.
This app is literally everything I wanted in a screen time app - NO SUBSCRIPTIONS, NO ADs, super customizable to help me achieve my goals every day, and also the fact that I’m unable to bypass it easily like some other apps. It actually keeps me accountable and keeps me on track to my goals before unlocking my distracting apps. This is the best screentime / productivity app for anyone who’s searching for one!
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Just what I’ve been looking for

I’ve tried many screen time apps and none compare to the level of control this one does. This has helped me to reach my daily goals as well as reduce screen time allowing me to be more productive. Timed locks help keep me in line when I would have simply ignored or turned off the restriction in other apps. Shortcuts integration allows for custom tracking outside of what’s already provided. 4 stars only because there are still some UI improvements I would love to see to make this app even better.
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Easily The Best Productivity App

I have tried every other productivity/app blocking app and this blows them all out of the water. There’s always so much nonsense added to them which is especially annoying for apps claiming to want to save you time. This app has all the features you need PLUS habit blocking which has been shockingly effective. The one-time purchase for extra habit functionality is great value too. I don’t mind paying for a good app as long as it’s not a subscription and this is a great app. Looking forward to desktop support next!
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BEST Screen Time App

To be honest. This is the first real and most useful Screen Blocker App I‘ve ever seen. The idea to finish your habits first is amazing. Keep it up and stay disciplined!

FAQ

How does Habits First work?

Habits First blocks access to selected distracting apps until you complete your predefined daily habits, such as walking or reading. This leverages the Premack principle to encourage desired behaviors.

What habits can Habits First track?

It can track habits like walking a set number of steps, working out for a specific duration (integrating with Apple Watch, WHOOP, Garmin, Oura), meditating, using specific apps, reviewing flashcards, listening to audiobooks, or finishing games. Advanced tracking for flashcards, audiobooks, games, and shortcuts requires a one-time purchase.

Is Habits First free to use?

Yes, the core app is free forever and includes features like Apple Health goals, app timers, schedules, places, commitment locks, widgets, and unlimited blocks. An optional one-time purchase unlocks additional integrations.

Can I set long-term commitments with Habits First?

Yes, you can set commitment locks for a day, a week, or a year, preventing early access to blocked apps. There are five emergency unlocks available per day, which do not refill.

Does Habits First have ads?

No, Habits First does not contain advertisements. The app is ad-free, with the option for a one-time purchase to unlock premium features.

What devices is Habits First available on?

Habits First is available on iPhone and iPad devices.

How often is Habits First updated?

The app was last updated on August 21, 2026, with version 1.4. The developer actively adds features and is open to user requests.

What is the age rating for Habits First?

Habits First has an age rating of 4+, making it suitable for a wide range of users.