How to block apps on iPhone with an NFC tag
Screen Time limits are easy to ignore: one tap on "Ignore limit" and you're back on Instagram. An NFC tag adds something willpower can't: a physical step. If the tag is on your desk or by the front door, unlocking an app means getting up and walking to it. That small bit of friction is usually enough to break the automatic reach for your phone.
What you need
- An iPhone with iOS that supports Screen Time app blocking
- Any NFC sticker or tag (NTAG213/215/216 work well; see recommended NFC tags)
- Noff: €9.99 once, no subscription. No account.
Step by step
- Download Noff from the App Store and allow Screen Time access when asked.
- Pair your NFC tag. Hold the top of your iPhone near the tag until Noff confirms it's paired.
- Choose what to block. Pick apps, whole categories (like Social or Games) or websites.
- Start a Focus session. Choose Infinite, 30 min, 1 h or 2 h.
- Put the tag somewhere inconvenient. Your desk for work, the front door for evenings, the kitchen to keep the phone out of bed.
- Unlock with a tap. When you really need an app, walk to the tag and tap it.
Where to put your NFC tag
- Desk: your phone only unlocks where you work.
- Front door: no doomscrolling once you're home.
- Kitchen: no scrolling in bed.
Noff vs. Screen Time vs. hardware blockers
| Screen Time | Hardware blockers (e.g. Brick) | Noff | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easy to skip | Yes, one tap | No | No, needs your tag |
| Extra device to buy | No | Yes | No, any NFC sticker |
| Subscription | No | Varies | No, €9.99 once |
| Account required | No | Varies | No |
What if I lose my tag?
Noff includes Recovery and Emergency options so you're never locked out for real.
FAQ
Does any NFC tag work?
Most standard NFC stickers do. See recommended tags for tested formats.
How much does Noff cost?
€9.99 once, no subscription.
Do I need an account?
No. Noff works on-device and doesn't need an account.