this post was submitted on 06 Feb 2026
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Is anyone aware of a good open source app blocking app for Mac?

I'm having a hard time finding something that's not proprietary from a general search.

What I'm looking for is one where you can block apps for a set duration. For example: You're studying and you want to block access to chat apps, Ice Cubes for Mastodon, etc for, say, an hour.

I've found browser extensions to block specific websites and the one I use is great. But, looking for one for the apps themselves.

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[–] GiuseppeLasagna@mander.xyz 1 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago)

After I posted this, an app I use on my phone, Screen Zen, released a Mac version of their app. So I'm going to see how that ends up working out. Don't think it's open source, but It might do in the meantime.

[–] adespoton@lemmy.ca 3 points 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago) (1 children)

Isn’t that functionality built in to the OS? Set up parental controls, and you can do this with no extra apps needed. It’ll even generate reports.

Using Shortcuts, you can even map these profiles to different Focus modes.

[–] GiuseppeLasagna@mander.xyz 1 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago)

I hadn't considered using shortcuts. I'll explore what I can do with that. It would be nice to hit one button, have it set a timer, enable both these blocks, and turn on focus mode.

[–] listless@lemmy.cringecollective.io -3 points 4 days ago (1 children)

they don't work because you can just uninstall them or turn them off. Unless you give someone else admin access, you're able to remove the block.

or pick up your phone.

or use a different computer.

or visit the web address instead of using the app.

Set a timer and stick with it.

they don't work because you can just uninstall them or turn them off

As someone who uses an app like this: no, you don't do that. Because people are able to recognize that they downloaded the app to help themselves.

Just because there's a workaround to the block doesn't mean people are going to use it.

And quit being an ass. This person is just asking for help.