Brick: Live More, Scroll Less (Phone App Blocker)

Brick: Live More, Scroll Less (Phone App Blocker)

💡 The Idea

The Focus Brick is a physical barrier against digital noise. Inspired by the concept of building a wall against social media distractions, this 3D-printed desktop gadget helps you step away from the screen and reclaim your time. By merging a sleek mechanical design with smart tech, it serves as a tangible commitment to your real-life productivity and mindfulness.

🛠️ Required Hardware

To make this print fully functional, you will need to insert these standard components during assembly:

• NFC Tag: 1x Standard NTAG213 (or similar round NFC coin/sticker).
• Magnets: 4x Neodymium magnets (6mm diameter x 3mm thickness) for the quick-snap docking action.

📲 Software Setup (Works with Foqos!)

This model is designed as a perfect companion for Foqos, the popular open-source digital wellness and screen-time free blocking app for iOS. Here is how to configure it:

1. Create Your Profile: Open Foqos and set up a blocking profile with the specific social media or distracting apps you want to lock down.
2. Link the Brick: Go to the app's Blocking Strategy settings, select NFC then scroll down to physical unlocks and add your NFC tag.
3. Scan to Program: Hold your phone over your printed Brick to link the embedded tag.
4. Tap to Focus: Click start to start a foqos session and tap your phone to the Brick to instantly activate your digital wall and start your focus session!

*There is also an option through your iphone shortcuts to tap the nfc tag even from your home screen to instantly activate a session linked to   the nfc tag.

To see the step by step guide to do that click here

🖨️ Print Settings & Tips

• Material: PLA works beautifully.
• Orientation: Print flat on the bed (looks incredible on a textured or carbon fiber plate like in my photos!).
• Hardware Insertion: The precise pause-at-height commands are already embedded directly into my provided Print Profile. Simply slice, send to your printer, and drop your magnets and NFC tag into place when the machine pauses!