# Recode: Screen Time Control — Block Apps. Scan QR to Unlock.

> App blocker requiring QR/barcode scan to bypass. (iPhone/iPad app by Alexander Hartigan.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/recode-screen-time-control/id6752352978 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Alexander Hartigan](https://appshunter.io/developer/1839013984)
- Category: Productivity
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Rating: 4.20/5 from 5 App Store ratings · 3 written reviews indexed
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 17.6 · 3 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2025-10-13
- Data updated: 2026-08-01
- Monetization: freemium
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/recode-screen-time-control/id6752352978/reviews.md

## What is Recode?

Stop scrolling. Start living. Recode is the only screen time app that requires you to physically scan a QR code or barcode to unlock your blocked apps. No easy bypass. No cheating. Just real accountability.

How it works:
   1. Choose which apps to block and set your schedule.
   2. Pick any QR code or barcode as your unlock key — a book on your shelf, a code at your desk, anything.
   3. When you want to unblock, you have to physically go scan it. That friction is what makes Recode work.

Why it's different:
Other screen time apps let you bypass limits with a single tap. Recode doesn't. The physical requirement of scanning a code creates real resistance between you and your distracting apps. You can't cheat from the couch.

Track your progress with Streaks:
Build a daily streak by keeping your break time under 30 minutes. Watch your calendar fill with green as you take back control of your habits.

Built from personal experience:
I built Recode because I was losing myself in endless scrolling — distracted all day, drained at night, ashamed of how little I got done. Even in its demo version, the simple act of requiring a scan to unblock completely shifted my habits. Knowing I couldn't unblock until I got home kept me off my phone. Over time, I reclaimed focus, confidence, and the satisfaction of being productive.

Take control of your time. Download Recode today.

Available subscription options:
Recode Pro – Monthly or Annual auto-renewable subscription.

Terms of Use (EULA): https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/

## Key features

- Physical app blocking via QR/barcode scan
- Accountability through intentional unlocking
- Reduces reflex app checking
- Promotes focus and productivity
- Customizable app blocking schedules

## Pricing and in-app purchases

Base price: Free.

**Subscriptions**

| Subscription | Price | Period |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Pro Yearly | $19.99 | per year |
| Pro Monthly | $2.99 | per month |


## Recent user reviews (3 of 3)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/recode-screen-time-control/id6752352978/reviews.md

### 3/5 — Amazing all but consistent bugs

*2026-07-08*

This app works great for me for a few days. I have it scheduled to block specific apps from 8pm-10am and again from 12pm-4pm. I find that having these 2 and 4 hour open blocks are helpful for me, as it makes me more willing to keep the apps blocked during their scheduled time. The barcode I use is a 10 minute walk from my house inside of my car. 

The bugs that I’m consistently experiencing involve the scheduling. Often during my free time, the apps will remain blocked and it’ll say the two schedules are both active, when they shouldn’t be. Because my barcode is far, I would have to walk 20+ minutes to fix the app every time so I have since learned to bypass it. This is fine but it defeats the purpose of the app, and makes me prone to not relocking the apps at their scheduled time or forgetting all together. If the schedule worked properly every time, the app would definitely be a 10/10. Sometimes when I reactivate the app, it doesn’t take effect or will block the apps even during a free time. 

Hopefully these issues are addressed at some point!

**Developer response:** Bug fixes have been shipped! Would love if you gave it another shot.

### 4/5 — Great app, minor suggestions

*2026-03-02*

I love this and it’s a great option as opposed to one Brick. 
However, some things I’d love to see in the future:
A scan to lock feature, without having to make a schedule. 
Some sort of screen time goal tracker or incentives.
Ability to add more than one barcode.

**Developer response:** A scan to lock feature, and streaks based on if you followed your schedule are both implemented. Would love for you to give another try!

### 4/5 — Cool idea, encountered a couple bugs

*2025-10-30*

I really like this concept, nice not to have to buy a 60 dollar nfc tag to accomplish the exact same thing. This works better for me than any of the other screen time apps and I've tried a lot of them.

Two bugs:
1. Facebook isn't getting blocked even though it's checked in block apps. I triple checked. Maybe this is a problem with screen time itself and not the app but it worked in other screen time apps.
2. When I take a break, some significant percentage of the time it'll re-lock after a few seconds by itself.

Other feedback:
I shouldn't have to select the schedule to take a break. Maybe higher friction is the point though.

It would be cool if you could lock ad-hoc maybe with a countdown timer.

Overall though this is a great app. Well done!

**Developer response:** This issue should have been fixed in recent updates. Would love it if you gave us another shot!

## Frequently asked questions about Recode

### How does Recode physically stop app usage?

Recode requires you to scan a pre-set QR or barcode to unlock any blocked applications. This physical action creates a barrier, preventing impulsive or habitual app checking.

### What are the subscription options for Recode?

Recode offers a Pro subscription with monthly ($2.99/month) and annual ($19.99/year) plans. Both plans include a 7-day free trial.

### Is Recode available on Android devices?

Based on the provided data, Recode is currently only supported on iPhones.

### How often is Recode updated?

Recode was last updated on October 21, 2025, with the latest version being 1.2. This indicates a relatively recent update.

### What is the age rating for Recode?

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

### Does Recode have ads?

No, Recode does not contain advertisements. The app is free to download and use, with optional premium features available through subscription.

### Can I bypass Recode's app blocking easily?

The core design of Recode is to make bypassing difficult. The requirement to physically scan a QR or barcode to unblock apps is intended to deter quick, habitual access.

### What are the benefits of using Recode for productivity?

Users report experiencing more focused work sessions, reduced mental clutter, better rest, and increased confidence in their ability to complete tasks by using Recode.

## Version history (last 5 releases)

### 1.7 — 2026-07-24

Instant block timer, "Strict Mode" (cannot delete app while block(s) are active), physical scan code can be changed without scanning current code when app blocks aren't active.

### 1.6 — 2026-07-20

Small changes. Easier to review from application, and onboarding changes.

### 1.5 — 2026-07-18

fixed schedule bugs.

### 1.4 — 2026-05-11

Quick block feature and updated onboarding.

### 1.3 — 2026-04-22

Updated modern UI. Streak counter.

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## More apps by Alexander Hartigan

- [Break Bad Habits - Ember](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/break-bad-habits-ember/id6774682501)

All apps by Alexander Hartigan: https://appshunter.io/developer/1839013984

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-01.*