Totem

Totem Software

In-app purchases

About this app

Totem is an app blocker, focus app, and screen time control app designed to help you reduce screen time, stop doom scrolling, and break phone addiction by adding real-world friction between you and distracting apps.
Unlike traditional screen time apps, focus timers, or app limiters that are easy to override, Totem requires you to scan a physical object before blocked apps can open. That small moment of intention disrupts the automatic habit loop behind endless scrolling, social media addiction, and late-night phone use.
Most phone use is impulsive. We open social media apps, games, or streaming platforms without thinking and fall into loops before we even realize it. Totem interrupts that pattern and turns mindless phone use into a conscious decision.
You can leave your Totem in another room while you work, keep it at home during the day, or place it somewhere intentional. If your Totem is not nearby, your distractions stay locked. That physical distance makes it easier to stay focused, avoid distractions, and build better digital habits.

HOW TOTEM WORKS
Pick your Totem:
Choose a small, unique object. A keychain, seashell, chess piece, or any personal item works.
Scan your Totem:
During setup, scan your object so Totem can recognize it when unlocking blocked apps. You can update it anytime.
Choose your distractions:
Select the apps you want to block. Social media, games, shopping apps, streaming apps, or anything that drains your focus.
Create a pause:
When you try to open a blocked app, Totem requires your object. That physical step breaks the habit loop and puts you back in control.

WHY TOTEM WORKS
Totem works by adding a small, intentional step between the urge to open an app and the ability to use it. That pause interrupts impulsive behavior and gives you time to decide whether you actually want to engage.
What makes Totem different from other app blockers and screen time apps is its adaptability. Instead of forcing strict limits, it lets you control how much friction is introduced. This matters because behavior change is not one-size-fits-all. Too little friction has no effect, and too much leads to frustration.
By allowing you to adjust how the system works, Totem supports gradual reduction in screen time. You can start with light restrictions and increase them over time as your focus improves. This creates a sustainable approach to breaking phone addiction and reducing distractions.
Totem does not rely on willpower alone. It gives you a system that makes intentional phone use easier than impulsive scrolling.

FEATURES
• Real-world app blocker that requires scanning a physical object
• Support for up to 2 Totems for flexible setups
• Scheduled app blocking with custom days and times
• Notification blocking to reduce interruptions
• Emergency unlocks with cooldown-based access
• Custom blocking screens and messages
• Activity tracking for screen time, app opens, and focus sessions

WHO TOTEM IS FOR
Totem is for anyone who wants to reduce screen time, stop doom scrolling, and take control of their phone use.
It’s ideal for:
• Students who want to focus and study without distractions
• Professionals doing deep work or productivity sessions
• Creators who need uninterrupted time
• Anyone doing a digital detox or dopamine detox
• Anyone trying to break social media addiction or phone addiction
If you’ve tried screen time limits, focus apps, or app blockers and still struggle with distractions, Totem offers a more effective and intentional approach.

ACCESSIBILITY SERVICE
Totem uses the Android Accessibility Service to enable app blocking. This allows the app to detect when blocked apps are opened and display a blocking screen.
What the Accessibility Service is used for:
• Detecting when selected apps are opened
• Displaying blocking screens to prevent access
Totem does not access or read content inside your apps, messages, or personal data.

What’s new

• More reliable Totem scanning and clearer rate-limit messaging when needed.
• Minor fixes and stability improvements.