The Problem with 99% of App Blockers
We’ve all been there: You download a screen time tracker, set a 30-minute Instagram limit, and the moment you crave cheap dopamine, what happens?
You swipe the overlay away, kill the app in Recents, or uninstall it in 3 seconds.
Most blockers rely on weak software overlays that are trivial to bypass when your willpower runs low.
As an engineer struggling with compulsive scrolling, I decided to build a distraction shield that actually respects human psychology and native Android system constraints: Aegis Focus.
Key Technical Architecture:
Tamper-Proof Strict Mode (DeviceAdminReceiver):
Once a strict session is engaged, Android's native Device Administrator safeguards lock the app. You cannot force-stop, clear data, or uninstall the app until the timer finishes. Zero cheating.Adaptive Mindful Friction (5s → 30s Escalating Delay):
Instead of jarring hard blocks that cause frustration, Aegis introduces an intentional breathing cooldown. Repeat attempts to open blocked apps dynamically increase the delay friction.-
100% On-Device Privacy (Zero Telemetry):
- NO mandatory accounts or logins.
- NO Firebase/Mixpanel tracking or telemetry.
- All session data lives purely in a local encrypted SQLite Room database.
- Zero internet permission requested.
Tech Stack:
- Language: Kotlin 2.0 (100% Coroutines & Flow)
- UI: Jetpack Compose + Material 3
- Local DB: Room SQLite
- Permissions: AccessibilityService (Foreground app detection) + UsageStatsManager + DeviceAdminReceiver
Try it out & Support Indie Development:
- GitHub Repository: https://github.com/khalidabdullahh/AegisFocus
- Gumroad (Pro Release): https://khalidabdullahh.gumroad.com/l/kvuadt
I'd love to hear your feedback on the architecture and strict mode mechanics!
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