The number of Android apps are increasing day-by-day and it’s easy to get distracted with so many features that may appeal as they land on the Play Store after being developed by the best Android app development company. The only way to cut back on the screen time is restricted downloading but then, another concern can be of children who may playfully download and access inappropriate and age-restricted applications.
Having that said, parents all over the world today are concerned about their children’s safety when it comes to establishing a digital presence be it from apps or websites. Even grown-ups at times can get carried away by downloading unnecessary apps that won’t do any good except for taking out your device’s storage and killing quality time.
In this article, we have highlighted some useful tips and tricks on “how to block app on Android” to restrain you and your children from downloading unwanted apps. Sit back and read on!
The first and simplest way when learning about how to block app on Android devices is to enable the parental control settings in the Google Play Store. This is quite helpful for concerned parents with their children at the age of using smartphones as parental control restricts access to certain applications, movies, games, television shows and other such files. Follow the steps to below:
Go to the Google Play Store and tap on the hamburger menu i.e. the three horizontal lines on the top-right corner of the screen.
Tap on Settings and swipe down for Parental Controls.
Simply click on the toggle bar in front of the option to turn it ON.
Choose which content to block and what not to
2. Parental Control Apps
You can also use parental control apps available on the Play Store to track and monitor each activity on your smartphone. This way, you can ensure creating a digitally safe ecosystem for yourself and your children. However in the end, it totally depends on how you’d use your device and apps.
Photo Credits: Noobie
Parental control apps also allow users to view installed applications with their downloading, installation date and time. Also, these apps also share statistics on total time being spent on different applications thus helps in taking a timely and informed decision. Potentially harmful and inappropriate apps can be deleted and blocked for good!
This option works well when you may be planning to temporarily block apps on Android.
3. Google Family Link
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With Google Family Link, users can manage their device and app usage by setting up restrictions such as screen-time limitation, content filtering, age ratings and more. So this is yet another handy parental app for Google Android OS. Tracking purchase history of certain apps, software and programmes, managing screen-time and much more can easily be performed.
4. Third-Party Applications
There are many third-party applications to help users block unwanted, bothersome and inappropriate applications and websites. These can also assist in managing screen-time so you can concentrate more on things that are important such as, spending quality time with family, play sports, read books and so on.
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Third-party applications like AppBlock works like one of those Google extensions that blocks inappropriate ads and digital content. Once downloaded and installed, not only can you block an app on Android but also restrict those annoying pop-up notifications and potentially harmful websites, apps etc.
In-fact, third-party Android applications come with a strict or alert mode that notifies parents or primary users in-case someone bypassess the rules or tempers with the application.
There are instances when already installed applications on your Android device start misbehaving or might’ve been corrupted due to virus infiltration. Such issues can also be countered with third-party applications. Before you download, be sure to check their level of security as they may also block apps that are useful.
5. Digital Wellbeing
Let’s revisit the days when smartphones were running on Android 9: Pie. These devices have a pre-built feature or utility that can record all the history and device’s overall usage while also alerting you which activity is consuming most of your time. Although it’s available in your device’s Setting, just in-case it isn’t there, download it from the Google Play Store.
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Digital Wellbeing helps you set up usage limitations for different applications. Once you run out of time for the day, the icon would automatically change to gray and the user won’t be able to access the application for that day. To ensure you remain undistracted and at-peace, the Android OS would also block notifications from the application.
Android Application limit can be configured by launching the Digital Wellbeing app, tap on the dashboard and simply select the app you wish to restrict. Click on the App Timer and set a daily time limit. Hit the OK button when you’re done with the configuration.
How to Block Installed Apps on Android from Auto-Update
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Installed applications on the Android device receive frequent updates based on new features, advanced version release and more. But, there might be apps on your smartphone that are rarely used and auto updates would only make the files heavier thus taking up more space and even slowing down the performance. This is when you should consider turning off the update feature for certain apps. Here’s what you need to do:
Go to the Google Play Store and click on the profile icon on the top-right of your screen.
Tap on Settings and then click on Network preferences.
Select Auto-update app option and;
Tap on Don’t auto-update or simply Turn-off icon to disable
Final Thoughts
We are living in a digitally connected world, overrun by applications and AI that has the potential to distract you and your children, result in lower productivity and academic performance and even trigger certain physical and cognitive disabilities.
Blocking apps is just a small step to ensure your safety and wellbeing however, it’s all about your willingness to stay away from the gadgets and repel that pull-back feel. Putting down your phone with all the addictive apps and notifications can be difficult but not impossible. Simply follow the above steps to at-least start with the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I block apps temporarily?
A: Android does not have a built-in feature to temporarily block apps. However, there are third-party apps available on the Google Play Store that allow you to set timers or lock apps for a specific duration.
Q: Can I block apps from being used by specific users?
A: Android does not have a built-in user-specific app blocking feature. However, some third-party parental control apps offer this functionality, allowing you to block or restrict apps based on user profiles.
Q: What happens when I block or disable an app?
A: When you block or disable an app, it will no longer be accessible or functional on your device. It will not appear in your app drawer, and you won’t receive notifications or updates related to that app.
Q: Can I unblock a blocked app?
A: Yes, you can unblock a blocked app. To do this, go to the app’s information page in the Settings app, and if the app is disabled, you’ll see an “Enable” option. Tap on it to unblock and enable the app again.
Q: Can I password-protect blocked apps?
A: Android does not have a built-in feature to password-protect blocked apps. However, you can use third-party app lockers or security apps from the Google Play Store to add an extra layer of password protection to specific apps.
Meet Ahsan, the wordsmith behind some of the most electrifying pieces on app development. Armed with a keyboard, a cup of coffee, and an insatiable curiosity, Ahsan has spent years exploring the wild and wonderful world of app development. Currently working at Trango Tech, an app development company, Ahsan brings his expertise to the forefront. So buckle up, grab a cup of coffee (or tea, we won't judge), and get ready to dive headfirst into the exciting and ever-changing world of app development with Ahsan as your guide.
