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A small rectangular grey device with rounded corners sitting on a flat surface, next to a smartphone.
Tech
Brick

Brick Phone Access Blocker

A small physical object that makes ignoring your phone feel intentional rather than impossible — no subscription required.

$71.00as of Oct 7, 5:00 PM UTC
Why we picked it

Brick works by pairing a palm-sized magnet with an app, so blocking distractions requires a deliberate physical tap rather than a willpower battle with a settings menu.

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Our verdict

Brick works by pairing a palm-sized magnet with an app, so blocking distractions requires a deliberate physical tap rather than a willpower battle with a settings menu. The custom modes and usage tracking give it some real structure for people who want data on their habits, not just vibes. It's less suited for anyone who wants a hard lock they genuinely can't undo — since you can always tap back in, the friction is psychological by design.

Best for: People who want a low-tech nudge toward focus without committing to a monthly subscription or parental-control-style hard locks.

What we like

  • One-time purchase with lifetime app access, no subscription
  • Custom modes for different parts of the day (work, study, family time)
  • Tap-to-block and tap-to-unblock — simple physical interaction
  • Tracks focused time and daily averages inside the app
  • High-grade magnet with anti-slip silicone base

What to consider

  • The blocking is friction-based, not enforced — you can always tap back in, so it relies on your own buy-in
  • Requires downloading and setting up the Brick app before the physical device does anything
  • Only one Brick (grey) included; households wanting multiple units or colors would need additional purchases
  • Check that your phone supports NFC tap functionality, as the tap-to-activate mechanic depends on it
Product details
  • Take Back Control of Your Screen Time: Brick is a physical device that temporarily removes distracting apps and their notifications from your phone by creating real world friction. When you're ready to reconnect, return to your brick and tap to unblock your apps. Includes 1 grey Brick.
  • Effortless Control: Brick is subscription-free and includes lifetime access to the Brick app at no additional cost. No complex setups, just more time for what matters.
  • How to Use: Open the Brick app and choose which apps or websites you want to block. Tap your phone to the Brick to activate it and turn your phone back into a tool that supports your goals. When you're ready to reconnect, simply tap again to regain access.
  • Custom Modes: Create custom modes for different parts of your day — each with its own set of blocked apps. Boost productivity in Work mode, study without distractions in School mode, and be present at home in Family Time mode.
  • Track Usage: Make digital health a daily habit. As soon as your phone is Bricked, a timer starts tracking how long you are staying focused for. You can monitor your Brick activity such as hours spent Bricked or daily average Bricked time in the app.
Researched recommendationPublished May 19, 2026Updated August 13, 2026
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