Latch
Locks distracting apps until you physically walk to an NFC sticker or printed QR code and scan it.
Puts the unlock across the room, so getting distracted takes effort and staying focused takes none.
Latch moves the unlock button off your phone. You stick a cheap NFC tag or a printed QR code somewhere in your home, like the laundry or the front door, and Latch locks the apps you choose until you walk over and scan it.
That bit of walking is the whole idea. Tapping past a screen-time limit takes a second. Getting up off the couch takes intent, and most of the time you'll decide the scroll isn't worth the trip.
The free version covers what most people need: one key, a few lock profiles and a hard lock you can't just switch off. Pro is a one-off purchase, not a subscription, and adds more keys plus a step-count unlock.
It's a small, new app, but it does the job of the physical app-blocker gadgets without buying hardware that may not ship to Australia. It works on both iPhone and Android, with no account, ads or tracking.
Best for
- People who blow through screen-time limits
- Keeping your phone out of bed or off the dinner table
- iPhone and Android households
Skip it if
- You need your apps unlocked on the go
- A gentle reminder is enough for you
How to set up Latch
- Install Latch from the App Store or Google Play.
- Print a QR code or grab an NFC sticker and register it as your key.
- Stick the key somewhere you have to walk to, like the laundry.
- Pick the apps to lock and turn the lock on.
Latch pricing
- Free
- FreeOne key, three profiles, two places, hard lock
- Pro
- $14.99 one-offAustralian App Store price, no subscription
Prices in Australian dollars unless noted, checked November 2026. Prices change, so check Latch's own site before you pay.
Latch is one of several picks in Best Focus and Screen-Time Apps for Australians in 2026, if you want the full comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy special hardware for Latch?
No. You can print a free QR code, or use any cheap NFC sticker. Put it somewhere you have to walk to.
Is Latch free?
Yes. The free version includes one key, three lock profiles and a hard lock. Pro is $14.99 once on the Australian App Store as of November 2026.
Does Latch work on Android?
Yes, it's on both the App Store and Google Play.
How is Latch different from one sec?
one sec adds a short pause before an app opens. Latch keeps the app locked until you physically go and scan your key, so it's a much stronger barrier.
Alternatives in the stack
SideMission
NewLocks the apps you choose until you complete a real-world "side quest", like going for a walk or catching up with a friend.
Swaps screen time for real life by making the offline task the key that unlocks the phone.
ScreenZen
NewFree app that adds a short wait and daily limits before distracting apps open.
A completely free layer of friction between you and the scroll, set once and left running.
One Sec
Adds a brief mindful pause before you open a distracting app, backed by a peer-reviewed study showing it cuts how often you open the paused app.
A tiny bit of friction at the moment of temptation, the same principle as automating price-checks so you're not the one doing the tempting re-check.
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