# Brainrot

> iPhone screen time app and app blocker to stop doomscrolling

Brainrot is an iOS app blocker designed to curb social media use and doomscrolling. It lets users set daily app limits, run focus sessions, and view usage statistics to reduce screen time. The app gained attention through build-in-public devlogs highlighting the strict Apple App Store review hurdles screen-time blockers face.

Website: https://thebrainrotapp.com/

## How it works

Key takeaways from developer discussions on iOS App Store review rejections:

- Digital wellbeing and screen time reduction apps face heightened scrutiny from Apple reviewers (similar to Opal and other screen-time blockers).
- Ensure clear End User License Agreements (EULA) and terms of use are explicitly referenced and visible.
- Review criteria and strictness can vary significantly depending on the assigned reviewer; multiple rejection cycles are standard practice before launch approval.

## What it is for

- Block distracting apps like TikTok and Instagram during work or study
- Set daily time limits on social media feeds to stop doomscrolling
- Run timed focus sessions to maintain deep concentration
- Track daily usage trends and streaks to stay consistent

## Features

- App blocker for individual distracting apps
- Focus mode with built-in timers
- Streak tracking to maintain daily reduction goals
- Usage statistics to identify screen time patterns
- Scheduled daily limits for selected applications

## Pricing

Freemium. Free to download on the App Store; includes in-app purchases or subscriptions.

## Details

- Type: other
- Category: [Productivity](https://xiry.app/topics/productivity.md)
- Open source: no
- Platforms: iOS
- For: iPhone users looking to reduce screen time and cut out mindless phone browsing
- Alternative to: Opal, one sec, Freedom
- Tags: screen time, app blocker, focus, doomscrolling, digital wellbeing, ios

## Why it was saved

- [@yoniman.mp4, 15 May 2025](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJqYxrvuLgM/): Provides realistic insight into the App Store review process, strict scrutiny around EULAs, and review friction faced by digital wellbeing apps competing with native iOS Screen Time.

## Related

- [Configuring the iPhone 15 Pro Action Button](https://xiry.app/resources/configuring-the-iphone-15-pro-action-button): How the Action Button settings interface works and available trigger options (Tip, Free)
- [Habits Garden](https://xiry.app/resources/habits-garden): Gamified habit tracker that turns routine building into growing a garden. (Mobile app, Freemium)
- [iPhone Anti-Theft Lock Screen & Find My Setup](https://xiry.app/resources/iphone-anti-theft-lock-screen-and-find-my-setup): iOS settings configuration to prevent offline disconnection and enable tracking when powered off (Tip, Free)
- [Lost iPhone Location Automation via Apple Shortcuts](https://xiry.app/resources/lost-iphone-location-automation-via-apple-shortcuts): Automate location sharing and connectivity toggles via SMS keyword triggers (Tip, Free)
- [No “yes.” Either “HELL YEAH!” or “no.”](https://xiry.app/resources/no-yes-either-hell-yeah-or-no): A simple decision-making rule to avoid overcommitment and stay focused. (Article or course, Free)
- [Slate - Private Voice Journal](https://xiry.app/resources/slate-private-voice-journal): Private, on-device audio diary and reflection tool for iPhone. (Mobile app, Freemium)

Updated 3 October 2026. Page: https://xiry.app/resources/brainrot

Make your own library: Xiry takes your saved reels, tweets, Reddit bookmarks and Watch Later videos, makes them searchable and pulls the useful stuff out, like this library. It's invite-only for now; join the waitlist at https://xiry.app/#waitlist.