Pause

Name: Pause
Author: dtsykunov

A minimal Android app that shows a countdown before you can open apps you have chosen.

Open source (MIT)By dtsykunov

Free Open sourceAndroid

Official websitedtsykunov.github.io

F-Droidf-droid.org

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View the Pause source code

Alternatives

ZenwellZenwell blocks chosen apps until you solve math problems or practice breathing, with customizable schedules, rather than showing a countdown before the app opens.
PlugBrainPlugBrain locks distracting apps behind a math challenge whose difficulty adapts to how often you open them, and it runs on a schedule of regular breaks.
one secone sec adds a pause before chosen apps on Android and iOS and can block websites, but it is closed source and freemium.
CurboxCurbox blocks apps and websites, including Reels and Shorts, with unlock challenges such as NFC and QR codes, and tracks screen time. It is open source on F-Droid.
DefangDefang is a home screen launcher that adds a pause before distracting apps open, so it replaces your launcher instead of running alongside it.
ClearspaceClearspace adds a mindful pause before distracting apps on Android and iOS with a Chrome extension, but it is closed source.

See all alternatives

About Pause

Pause adds a short, timed pause before selected apps open. When you launch one of them, the screen is covered by a panel with a countdown, and only when it finishes can you choose Open anyway or Cancel.

The idea is to turn an automatic tap into a deliberate choice. It adds friction rather than blocking apps outright, so it suits people who want to cut back on habitual phone use without strict lockouts or schedules.

Strengths

Simple countdown before chosen apps open
Leaves the final choice to you with Open anyway or Cancel
Small, focused app with an open-source codebase

Limitations

Friction only; it does not hard-block apps
Small project with few users so far

Details

Pricing: FreeFree and open source under the MIT licence.
License: MIT
Developer: dtsykunov
Platforms: Android
How it runs: Downloadable app
Best suited for: Breaking the habit of opening distracting apps without thinking
Categories: System utilities, Time tracking and focus
Last verified: October 2, 2026
Added: October 2, 2026
Sources: dtsykunov.github.io/pause-app
github.com/dtsykunov/pause-app
f-droid.org/packages/com.dtsykunov.pause

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