2026-02-18
No free trial
Couldn’t even try it. As soon as I set up app and time limits, it wants me to sign up for a year or restore purchases. It said there would be a free trial but I guess that was a lie. 🤷♀️
Updating
-1
#50 in Top Free Apps > Productivity
-1
#66 in Top Grossing Apps > Productivity
iPhone Screenshots
Description
BePresent is the #1 app to control your screen time and supercharge your productivity, mental health, and quality of life. Experience life beyond the screen as you reclaim Your Time and earn rewards that improve your life with BePresent!
25 years. That’s the average time you will spend on your phone.
With a combination of app blocking, gamification, social competition with friends, and real-life rewards, you will reclaim YEARS of your life like thousands of BePresent members already have.
We know you’ve tried to solve this problem before. But we’re not like other screen time apps.
▶ WHAT USERS ARE CELEBRATING ◀
• “I was able to go from 7+ hours per day to less than 2 hours! 10/10 would recommend” - Andrew M.
• “FINALLY an app that actually curbs my screen addiction instead of time limits that I just ignore!” - Gina V.
• “I’ve tried everything but nothing has worked. I almost gave up before I used BePresent! Thank god I tried it as I’ve reduced my screen time by over 3 hours a day!” - Jack W.
Download now to experience life to the fullest.
Instead of annoying app blockers or time limits, BePresent makes it fun and easy to stay off your phone.
▶ FEATURES ◀
[ BePresent App Blocking Sessions - Individual, Group, & BEAST MODE ]
• Dive into Present Sessions! Dedicate breaks from screens, whether it's a focused study session or a no-phone night out. Team up with friends for Group Sessions and joint tech time-outs. Share updates, cheer, and keep one another accountable—all from within the app. Need a stringent break? Enter BEAST MODE, ensuring unwavering commitment
[ Set Daily Goals and Build Your Streak ]
• Choose your digital boundaries. Maintain your streak by sticking to set screen time limits. Back your commitment with a monetary stake — overshoot, and that stake's gone. Customize reminders and design your journey to digital well-being.
[ Compete on Weekly Leaderboards and Challenge Your Friends]
• Show off your productivity prowess by competing against others on weekly leaderboards. Advance tiers so you’ll feel like a productivity superhero every day. Practicing mindful phone habits has never been so motivating and rewarding!
[ Earn Real-Life Rewards ]
• The ultimate motivation - earn points you can redeem for real-life rewards by limiting your screen time. Best of all, your rewards will also improve your life. Learn to meditate with a premium Headspace subscription. Redeem free workout classes with ClassPass. Schedule discounted therapy sessions with BetterHelp. Earn these rewards and more all by staying off your phone.
[ Never Doomscroll Again ]
• Set hourly scrolling awareness reminders so you never lose track of time doomscrolling again
[ Time Tracking & Daily Reports ]
• Measure the moments you're truly present. Access daily and weekly breakdowns, complemented by a comprehensive day-before report, amplifying your adherence to reality.
[ Improve Your Well-Being ]
• By reducing screen time, you'll improve your overall well-being and gain access to educational content that explains how reducing screen time can benefit you in multiple ways. Learn how to manage ADHD better, improve your mental health, and be more present with your loved ones, all while improving your sleep and becoming less distracted.
[ Complete Privacy and Data Security ]
• Data dignity, delivered. All of your data is private and safe with Apple’s Screen Time API. We do not have access to any specific content you access on your iPhone, and none of your personal data ever leaves your device.
▶ WE'RE HERE FOR EVERY QUERY ◀
Questions or feedback? Reach us at https://www.getpresentapp.com/ or shoot an email at contact@getpresentapp.com. Let's journey to mindful tech use together.
Note: All rewards are sponsored by BePresent and our partners. Apple does not sponsor any of the in-app rewards.
Terms of Use: https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/
Privacy Policy: https://www.getpresentapp.com/privacy-policy
What's New in Version 0.18.56
We made improvements and squashed bugs to make BePresent better for you.
Seller
Name
Screen Detox Inc
Information
Developer
Categories
Version
0.18.56
Size
174.2 MB
Game Center
No
VPP Device Licensing
Yes
Rating
Rated: 4+
Compatibility
iOS 16.0 or later
Devices
iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone SE, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone SE (3rd generation), iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air, iPad (5th Generation) Wi-Fi, iPad (5th Generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi, iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro, iPad Pro (Cellular), iPad Pro (9.7-inch), iPad Pro (9.7-inch) (Cellular), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro (10.5-inch), iPad Pro (10.5-inch) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro (11-inch), iPad Pro (11-inch) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Air, iPad Air (Cellular), iPad Air 2, iPad Air 2 (Cellular), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad Air (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad mini Retina, iPad mini Retina (Cellular), iPad mini 3, iPad mini 3 (Cellular), iPad mini 4, iPad mini 4 (Cellular), iPad mini (5th Generation), iPad mini (5th Generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad (7th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Air (4th Generation) (Wi-Fi), iPad Air (4th Generation) (Wi-Fi + Cellular), iPad (8th generation) Wi-Fi, iPad (8th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th Generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad (9th Generation), iPad (9th Generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad mini (6th Generation), iPad mini (6th Generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Air (5th generation), iPad Air (5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad (10th generation), iPad (10th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Air 11-inch (M2) Wi-Fi, iPad Air 13-inch (M2) Wi-Fi, iPad Air 13-inch (M2) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi, iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi, iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi, iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad (A16) Wi-Fi, iPad (A16) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi, iPad Air 11-inch (M3) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Air 13-inch (M3) Wi-Fi, iPad Air 13-inch (M3) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) Wi-Fi, iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad Pro 13-inch (M5) Wi-Fi, iPad Pro 13-inch (M5) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPod touch (6th Generation), iPod touch (7th generation)
Languages
English
App Store: Customer Ratings
Ratings & Reviews
4.9 of 5 (36,391 Ratings)
App Store: Customer Reviews
2026-02-18
No notice that my free trial had ended.
Says it will notify you before your free trial ends so if you want to cancel your subscription, you can do so before you're charged. It did not notify me and my card was charged for a 1 year membership.
2026-02-17
Keep going!
Love the app, love the UI, definitely helps you focus on WHAT actually matters in life. Love it!
2026-02-17
Very tricky cancellation policy
Unlike other apps where you can go into your subscriptions tab in Apple settings, this apps subscription is managed outside of Apple. It makes it more difficult to cancel your subscription.
Apple should ban this app
2026-02-17
Yes!
This is the innovative work we all should be supporting!
2026-02-17
bruh
incredible concept, sucks that its locked behind a paywall like every other app nowadays. just use opal. it does the same thing but they do it for free 🫡
2026-02-17
Money grab
The app signs you up for a trail and glitches so you’re stuck on a screen without ability to use and or cancel the subscription
2026-02-17
Annoying
The app is great but it keeps saying I have to reset my apps in the app but then it doesn’t do anything it’s just not working! It getting annoying and thankfully I have the trial I was going to continue but if it’s acting like this I won’t.
2026-02-17
Fee based
I downloaded this app, excited to get started when they asks me to then pay for their service. I did not realize this was a subscription when I downloaded so I wanted to make people aware before downloading. You cannot access the service for free. There is a 7 day free trial but you still have to put in your payment information to access the trial.
2026-02-17
Issues canceling free trial
After installing the app and activating the subscription every Cancelation request I submit, only provides another activation link, even though it states that the subscription is active. The Cancellation button after following the link in the email received is grayed out.
2026-02-17
So buggy it’s unusable
and when it does open it’s mega slow
2026-02-16
Hi
This app is helpful
2026-02-16
It’s great but could use some improvements!
You could make this app way better if you add some kind of difficult puzzle that they have to figure out before they’re allowed to fail their own goals. Anything to make doomscrolling annoying at least for a few seconds like 10-15 seconds. I feel like that’s enough to discourage doom scrolling. Make it a setting so they can make it increasingly difficult. Or you could even do ads so that you can monetize the app. Every time they try to stop being present they have to watch a video ad for 30 seconds.
2026-02-16
Controls my addiction - better than Brick
This app is a little pricey, but it is quite literally the best money I’ve ever spent. Despite the best of intentions, I used to get sucked into social media for hours and hours a day. Now I spend a maximum of 30 minutes on there (usually less).
I also tried Brick before this, but it didn’t work for me at all because I had to intentionally choose to lock myself out. That’s like expecting a raging alcoholic to lock up their own liquor cabinet.
2026-02-16
Cancelled subscription but still billed
Be careful with this app. I cancelled my subscription a day before the trial ended and I'm still being charged the yearly subscription.
2026-02-15
Incredibly buggy
I've never written a review before but I am so annoyed at this app I had to. When it works it's great. But - it is so buggy, it almost never works. If I want to end a presence session early, or unlock an app, I often have to clear my app history 2-3 times before this app actually lets me. It's so annoying. Looking into a brick rn
2026-02-15
Be present
The name speaks for itself. Many humans needs this app to stop doom scrolling. I love how this app keeps me off social media instead of when I actually need to post content. I do wish they had more reward options because it would make this more enticing.
2026-02-15
Very encouraging
So excited to use this
2026-02-14
Won’t let me cancel free trial
Do not use this app, I’m trying to cancel and their website doesn’t even work when you press the manage subscription button. I will be disputing this with my bank if I get charged and I have screen recording evidence.
2026-02-14
Welcoming back my personal time
This app is reducing my anxiety and granting me a reprieve from scrolling.
2026-02-14
Im not giving yall $60 just to be reminded that my phone is bad. Like what is wrong with you 😂😂😂
.
2026-02-14
Try it!
This did more for me than Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X or Tumbler combined! Try it at least and see for yourself. Go live life!
2026-02-14
Paid for Pro disappears
After moving to a new phone, my paid up pro subscription is gone (as are my settings) and i can’t restore it even though i can see it in my subscriptions in my wallet.
The contact support page doesn’t seem to have a technical support email.
So here’s a review that i hope gets their attention.
I liked it before the subscription disconnected.
2026-02-13
Cool concept but buggy
love the concept of the app but the app itself is super buggy. loading which apps are allowed/blocked can sometimes take 20+ seconds so it seems like it's just broken. if you download an app after starting a blocking session it sometimes just let you access that app instead of blocking it? if you set an unplanned block session and then it overlaps with a planned session it gets in a weird state and doesn't give you any points for the unplanned session or sometimes during the overlap it just doesn't block
2026-02-13
Would give zero stars
Does not help in any way achieve the goals it boasts. Do NOT waste your time or money on this app!
2026-02-13
PLEASE FIX!!
this app is good at doing it job, BUT : the screen to add or remove blocked apps often extends beyond the iphone screen so i cannot add or remove apps to be blocked . encoubtered this multiple times. please fix yrgently!!
it feels like you have done a design refresh, but again none of the buttons are working, please revert!!! asap
once you fix this, i will come back and update my star rating, I am a lifetime member so uoh need to hear me!! i have written emails about this too
2026-02-13
Free trial cancellation reminder does not work
When you sign up for a free trial, the app says it will remind you 48h in advance to cancel it if you want to.
IT DOES NOT !
I never got this reminder, and got charged 66$ for an app I barely use, with no ways of getting a refund because payment was made with Apple Pay…
2026-02-12
very good
i haven’t tried it yet but i’ve seen ads on it and it seems very good
2026-02-11
Best App
so grateful to have this as a reminder to be present!
2026-02-11
SO GOOD
I NEVER write reviews but this app has been SUPER helpful. I am doing so much better with social media use it's insane. Using a leaderboard, earning points, and keeping a streak has been excellent motivators to stay off my socials chronically while still allowing me to use them in moderation. I never do subscriptions, but I'm paying for this one! Its worth it and the lowest price is only $4/mo unlike a lot of apps that claim to help with phone addiction and do nothing
2026-02-11
App isn’t terrible, money grab, is.
They just want your money, it’s nearly impossible to cancel your “free trail” since you’re forced to put in your card details before you even use the app.
They claim to have a free trail but it does not exist even after “paying” im not even canceling my subscription since im using a temporary card app called Privacy and I can just block any transaction from this specific vendor.
I read their cancelation policy and it’s impossible to deal with especially if you forgot your email. I’m just deleting it, and going to
Opal where I can just use the app without entering my card info. Thank god for the app privacy! I’m not sponsored or marketing them but it’s the best app for things like this!!
2026-02-11
Very nice concept - strong improvement opportunities
While the app is extremely useful and the allowance concept is highly effective, there is a lot of room for improvement when it comes to reporting an providing stats which are key to accountability. I will keep on using it tho! It’s helped me a lot.
2026-02-11
Ama
I’m doing much better with my screen time in the mornings. I like that I can make minor adjustments and control my screen time especially in the past Instagram and TikTok would be where I spend most of my morning time . Now within the first week I’m able to check my emails, send messages to my instructor(s) and do other things in my home. From a Christian perspective, I have logged in the Bible app within the first hour of the morning which is important for me before I start my day. Practically speaking, I go to my most important apps Apple Health, pharmacy app and my email. I would recommend this app it’s different from the previous ones I’ve tried:-)
2026-02-11
I was skeptical
I was skeptical. I’ve tried everything to help with my screen time and social media addiction but nothing helped. After one week I’ve already seen a major difference! I’m more productive at work, I sleep better, I consciously reach for my phone less! My screen time went from 6 to 7 hours a day to 3 hours in a week…It’s 100% worth the price.
2026-02-11
Surprised at its helpfulness
I am so happy I saw the ad for this app. In my trial week I cut my screen time by 70%-80%. Of course, I ended up purchasing it because I love the accountability it helps me with. I am already more productive. I didn’t realize how depressed I felt from mindless scrolling. I thought that was only for teens :) thank you!
2026-02-10
Very helpful
The app has been surprisingly helpful and well worth the subscription cost. I do wish the clock would stop if the app is only running in the background or with the screen off, though. So if I open an app that I have a 5 minute limit on, and then something comes up that I have to address so I close the app/turn my screen off, the 5 minute countdown still continues. Other than that issue, I do enjoy the app and feel that it’s much more helpful than the screen limit options that the iPhone already comes with.
2026-02-10
Zero stars if possible
This app scams you for your money relies on people to forget subscriptions and doesn’t even allow you to probably cancel a subscription like every other app does avoid
2026-02-10
Start
I just started it, I’ll re rate if I see progress
2026-02-10
Good, one complaint
It’s a pretty good app, especially when you use it along with other self help apps like finch. I haven’t been using it long but I’m already feeling a lot less reliant on my phone. That being said, I wish there was a way to block websites. Because I can literally scroll on YouTube or instagram reels off of safari. I don’t want to block the whole search engine so it’d be great if I could somehow just block the websites.
2026-02-10
Good but freezes
I like using the app, but it’s glitchy and freezes up quite a bit. Hoping owners see this so it can be addressed, bc I really do like using the app!! Just wish it wouldn’t freeze so much.
2026-02-09
Best screen time app by far
I have tried 3 or 4 screen time apps and this has worked the best by far. Instagram ads claimed to cut screen time in half in just one day and mine absolutely did. I’ve also stuck to app opening limits. Will def pay after the free trial.
2026-02-09
This app helped me a lot
Very good app
2026-02-09
Amazing
This app makes you get off of Instagram. It actually works. This app will reduce your screen time.
2026-02-09
I feel like I got scammed
I got the one week free trial and then intended to get the monthly subscription. I didn’t realize that it would renew to the yearly subscription, so I lost $60. I tried asking for my money back but was told no twice. It left a bitter taste in my mouth and now I don’t even want to use the app.
2026-02-08
just no
this app slowed down my phone like crazy within the first two minutes of downloading it and you can’t even use it without paying for the subscription after the seven day trial
2026-02-08
Great app
Recommended to my whole family! Great stuff keep up the good work
2026-02-08
Very glitchy
Crashes my phone and makes my audio stop working.
2026-02-08
God at the Core
I really haven’t used it yet, but I hope this will bring me closer to God and that I may live in his presence. Love
2026-02-08
Helpful
I really cut down screen time while using this app! Super easy functionality and I really like the daily tips it provides so you can have alternatives to being on your phone. It does more than just saying “locked.” It reminds you to actually “be present.”
2026-02-08
App will constantly crash and bug out
Great app idea in theory, and sometimes good in practice. But the app will often crash or just “freak out”, which is insanely problematic when the app is blocking access to your other apps.
For example, one time late at night I had to end my “night session” in order to call an uber for a sick friend, and the app would NOT allow me to end the blocking session. Could very well lead to some dangerous situations, or just be really annoying as well.
2026-02-04
Worth It
I have spent the last 3 years searching for a way to stop my phone addiction. I bought a flip phone, I have tried every screen time app out there, I turn it off and put it away, but nothing has worked like this app. I don’t even feel withdrawal like I normally do!
The only thing I’d like to see added would be maybe the ability to exclude apps from counting towards your screen time. Even though I’ve been more offline, my screen time is 8+ hours because I listen to music. It doesn’t really take away anything from the apps effectiveness though.
2026-02-03
Not a bad app just not what I need
The app itself is good. I liked it for blocking social media during work hours and liked the way it automatically closed an app when the time was up.
What I didn’t like is that it calculates maps, email and other things as “screen time” that I think defeats the purpose. Driving to work with my maps on shouldn’t count as “screen time”. I know I could make it one of the allowed apps but it told me there was a limited amount of apps that could be allowed.
I do a lot of work on my phone so I needed to “allow” a lot of apps. I think I just need something solely for social blocking rather than screen time. Would suggest it to someone else though !
2026-02-02
Limitations Render It Impractical & Useless In My Case
It’s a great idea in theory but the way that it categorizes apps means you can’t exclude apps that need to remain running even though i’m not “using my phone.” For example when my security camera notifies me in the night of an alert, i can’t be opening the Present app and then checking the security footage. I also need my daughter’s baby monitor app for when i get notifications in the night, but that is classified as a different category and the app only lets you exclude two categories, which basically renders the app useless for me. Those are just two examples, but I actually have about six apps that I need even when I phone in an unproductive way. I realize restriction is helpful for an app like this, but there needs to be a little bit more customization if people are actually gonna be able to use it in this day and age IMO.
2026-01-24
It doesn’t calculate the time correctly
I don’t understand how the time is being calculated. I just got a notification that I am coming close to 14! hours of screen time today It’s only 8 am, this day didn’t even have 14 hours yet. And I was sleeping through majority of today’s hours, so how is that possible? I get sometimes notification at 12:30 am that my screen time is 2 hours already. How?
I also don’t appreciate that it counts screen time when I play music in my car. I don’t even touch the phone, it is not lit up. When I drive somewhere and I have a GPS, it counts it as a screen time. Even though it is displayed on my car screen, not my phone. I use GPS all the time even when I know where I am going, because it warns me about bad traffic ahead, so I am getting ridiculously high screen time because of that.
2026-01-16
Incredibly glitchy
I want to start off by saying that this app did help me at first, mostly because it has notifications when I’m approaching a certain amount of time on my phone which helps break me out of my trance with doom scrolling. With that being said, there will be random days where all of a sudden I just get a bunch of push notifications all at once, and then I go to the app and find out that they aren’t even accurate. It will also send me push notifications that I’ve completed a focus mode when I turned off that focus mode. I’ve done everything the app suggests such as having screen time only for this device. It also will randomly glitch so I can’t exit whatever “focus” mode it’s put on, so I’m just stuck out of apps that I need (ie travel, need my boarding pass). Overall, I’m glad I tried the app but I’m deleting it because these have gotten too annoying.
One other thing: I cancelled my recurring subscription (paid for the whole year) six months early but rather than getting the benefits of the subscription that I paid for until June, they cancelled them already. It’s January.
2026-01-03
It actually works?
I didn’t believe this could help me, and I already had an app blocker on my phone for certain time limits and stuff, so I didn’t think I needed this. But I gave it a try anyway. And wow! The streak and limited opens functions have really helped me cut down my Instagram time, and the difficulty of unblocking a session has kept me from scrolling first thing in the morning. I thought at first I had to pay for a subscription, but then I realized I do not. But I really find the app helpful, so I might do a subscription in the future to unlock a couple less-essential features.
If you’ve been despairing of ever beating phone addiction, I highly recommend this app!
2025-12-29
Never mind.
Just to let the developers know, as used in your app, “never mind” is two words, not one. It was one word as a Nirvana album title. But you might want the button that pops up in the app to say “Never mind.”
Haven’t used the app long enough to comment on it otherwise. But so far, I like the app intentions & the way the app sort of talks you through being deliberate about how you’re using those apps for which you’ve set intentions. And I appreciate the way it mentions that you need to enter the app to end a focus session and not just delete the app while things are blocked. I wasn’t at that point myself, but I appreciate the conscientiousness that would prevent people from messing their phones up.
2025-12-22
Great concept, minor bugs
I love this app, it really does make me more present in the moment and limits my screen time. The scoreboard feature is actually motivating even though it is pretty meaningless. The only issue is sometimes my present sessions will not get logged or get logged incorrectly and it sometimes doubles it. For example I have a present session from 6:00-8:30 and 9:00-12:00 and sometimes if I don’t open the app until after 9 it thinks I completed the 9:00-12:00 too and gives me the xp for it. There’s also minor bugs I noticed but generally speaking it’s a great concept for an app and I think it will get even better over time. I wish there were some more rewards but the ones there are great. Overall a good app.
2025-12-17
Highly Recommend!
I don’t usually write reviews but figured it was worth it on this one. I wanted to decrease my time on social media apps and on my phone less in general and gave this a try. I appreciate that you can set certain apps to never be locked and you can create different schedules to block apps at specific times. You can always access them, even during a block time but you have to take a few extra steps to unlock them. It’s just enough for me to decide not to go through with it since it’s not actually necessary. Some days I don’t even open social media now which is great!
2025-12-11
Trial Review
I haven't even had this app 24 hours and I'm already seeing value. I'm going to give five stars but come back and edit or add a new review if I find something that would be significant enough to reduce my rating. The first thing I noticed when I got to the app page, I saw #61 in productivity apps that is incredible!! I agree with another comment that it would be helpful to have more flexibility of blocking specific apps however, I realize there's a way you can back into that by blocking all, and then coming back and allowing certain apps I believe in the app set up it guided you through that process however, when going back to edit and allow an additional app took me several clicks to figure it out
I got this to help me manage my doom scrolling onto social media apps. I am very optimistic!
Thank you for finally creating something for the good of the world in hopes of salvaging our humanity.
2025-12-07
helpful
this app has dramatically helped reduce my screen time and doom scrolling. being repeatedly interrupted in my scrolling and told to go elsewhere has also helped me pivot naturally and improved my concentration ig. I've seen some of the negative reviews saying the app's points/rewards system is broken or unfair - if that matters to you, you're cooked, sorry. I barely open the app itself. my only critique is that it would be really helpful to have some kind of automatic timer overlay everytime you open a selected app so that you can spend your time more wisely and don't get interrupted in the middle of a video or writing a comment. if i knew what time i had left i could avoid both scenarios. but otherwise amazing app that has dramatically improved my mental health.
2025-12-05
Good app but needs updating
I loved this app when I first downloaded it. My screen time went from six hours to about an hour and a half in a few months time. Between the app blockers and the screen time notifications, it really kept me aware of how much time I was spending. There have been some updates that have really improved as well like having more lists to create blocked apps.
My biggest complaint though is the screen time notifications have been removed. This alone brought the app from a five star to three star for me. Without those notifications, my screen time went from an hour and a half back to about 3 to 4 hours. If I could get a refund for the app I would. I really hope this gets fixed soon, otherwise I will not be using the app anymore.
2025-12-03
Love the idea
So far I’m loving this app already and I love the idea behind it. What a great challenge and it is something I’ve been wanting to do because it can be so easy to run to this even as an anxiety tool. Which is cool but not always healthy. I want to be a better example to my kids and I know it starts with me. Even if I’m the only one who does it amongst my peers, friends, and family - that’s ok. I just want more life back but it can be so distracting with the phones ringing, buzzing, and social media to just be right there. Thankfully I’ve been able to have been working on having sound off on my phone just for the purpose of not always having to hear calls or texts. I made only the ones who are necessary able to come through. I will give an updated review after a week of using!
2025-11-18
This app WILL help you if you use it
If you struggle with getting life tasks done and/or feel as though you’re wasting your life on your phone, this is absolutely the app for you. It’s affordable for pro version but the free version is still very useful/helpful.
I downloaded Be Present about three months ago, after seeing an ad from its creators (I really like when the app creators are the ones hocking the product for some reason! Explaining the problem they set out to solve, it clicks in my brain) and it really helped my screen time and my focus on things outside my phone. However, I was moving and I was super broke, I paid for one month of month to month and then I wasn’t able to continue. Today, after close to two months have passed and after reviewing my screen time from the day before on the free version (which by the way is still great, not tons of limits) I decided to go ahead and purchase a year subscription and challenge myself to use it for the full year. I will see what kind of changes this might allow me to make and update my review but for now, I’m excited to see where this will take me.
2025-11-16
Didn’t even last a week before buggy behavior became unbearable
This app is buggy. It also has ridiculous arbitrary restrictions on schedules: no schedules can overlap, schedules have to be at least 20 minutes, schedules have to be under 12 hours. These restrictions have no explanation behind them, leading me to believe they are arbitrarily enforced for no reason. Furthermore, I am not able to make a weekend schedule. If I do, it only works for saturdays. I have to create 2 identical separate schedules, one for Saturday and one for Sunday. This is frankly ridiculous. I didn’t even make it through the free trial, there is no way I’d pay a subscription fee if the app (a) is going to needlessly restrict scheduling and (b) is it even going to actually work as described. This app puts way too much focus in being a form of social media instead of helping people get off their phones. Pretty disappointing, will continue to try other focus apps until one actually works as intended.
2025-11-15
Beware
Three problems: #1 It doesn’t block websites in phone browsers even though there is a screen that says it does (I confirmed this with their customer support twice because it seems really mislabeled and a bit of false advertising). So you can block the Facebook app but not the Facebook website. #2 The search function is buggy and the screen resets frequently while you’re trying to allow or block apps so you have to search 2-3 times each time to add or remove an app #3 The app overlays with Apple’s native screen control functions with some additional features and design. But it takes a lot of set up. This app blocks everything by default during “quiet” hours which becomes an exercise in repeatedly unblocking apps that you aren’t addicted to and just need to use for a second (weather, thermostat, bank, etc)…it gets frustrating.
2025-11-07
Effective, but not without issues
This app has cut my screen time in half within a month, and I didn’t think that was possible. So it is effective. That said, XP aspects are not great- XP from blocking sessions is lost if the end of the session overlaps a scheduled session, and the leaderboard is clearly fake, which limits its usefulness (XP can only be earned in 5 or 10pt increments, but no other leaderboard players have scores ending in 0 or 5). Minor quibbles overall since my screen time IS down, but still room for improvement. The benefit to my mental health was enough that I paid for the app. I do wish that there was a weekly recap or a way to view trends over time.
2025-11-06
Lots of bugs
I think the app is great but sometimes my sessions disappear even when they’re scheduled. Also I think the screen time widget should refresh automatically. Sometimes I forget it even works until I hit refresh and see how bad my screen time already is. Making it refresh automatically would be more impactful so I can see it without having to think about refreshing it.
But yeah the main issue is that halfway during a blocking session with the “all apps” rule, they start frayed out and then randomly aren’t greyed out anymore but the block session still has like two hours left on it. I neeeeed it to block me please. For a paid app, I feel this issue should be fixed.
2025-11-05
Better than Screen Time
I tired Apples Screen Time but I wasn’t a fan of the immediate availability to end the screen time block for 15 minutes or the entire day. With BePresent, you can restrict certain apps so that you only use it 10 minutes at a time 4 times a day, which is how I have it setup. It is completely customizable. I also have it scheduled to completely block access from certain apps Mon Thur Fri from 9-5 so that I can be present with my daughters. To turn it off I would have to go into settings, so for me it keeps me from doing it versus with Apples Screen Time I could suspend the block straight from the app.
BePresent is just user friendly compared to Apples Screen Time. I love it.
2025-10-30
A Threat to the Big A. Thanks BePresent.
Within a couple of months using this app, (and drastically changing my phone habits because of it) my phone randomly downloaded the Safari app on my Home Screen (without my permission) and the BePresent app stopped opening a couple of days after I figured out how to block Safari through restrictions settings. Too many coincidences. In other words, this app seems to be posing a threat to the big A and that is enough for me to give it 5 stars. It has worked like a charm for me and drastically changed my habits. Thank you “BePresent” and I hope it continues to work once I redownload the app.
2025-10-25
Everyone on the planet needs this app
Once I downloaded this app, it asks you to input your daily screen time and then it told me I was on track to waste 30 years of my life, looking at my screen 💔 this was just a painful realization. I needed in order to take action and actually do something about my social media addiction. It has only been a day since I’ve had the app, but they really mastered the psychology of rewarding you for not being on your phone. I am so grateful that this app exists, and I’m going to be champion it to everyone I know because it’s obviously not just me who has a screen addiction, it’s everyone who has a screen!
2025-10-22
Ok app, BUT unfortunate customer service and deceptive billing practices
Another app that will offer free trial and then lock you into a hefty subscription fee. I emailed the day of requesting a refund because I did not desire the full annual subscription for $60 bucks , yet there can’t be a refund, this isn’t an item that I am keeping and can’t be refunded , the access can be stopped and a refund could be granted , but their customer service won’t allow. It’s so deceptive and dishonest when these apps use this technique, instead of a quality app, where they can build a business model , that people can and will choose to spend their money on . Their business model is based on free trials and subscriptions that get tacked onto the free trials. It’s unfortunate, as I would have probably kept the monthly subscription, but I don’t support unscrupulous business practices.
2025-10-22
BEWARE!! SCAM!!
Never leave reviews but had to for this one. I downloaded the app because I was curious and wanted to do the free 7 day trial. I proceeded with the 7 day trial, and then was told the annual subscription would be close to $100. I did not want to commit to that and knowing myself would forget to cancel before the free trial ends. So I declined and planned to delete the app. Then they offered me a discount, dropping the annual price to about $50. Because that seemed less daunting, I decided I would do the 7 day trial and worst case would get charged the $50 for the year if I forgot to cancel (and maybe I would’ve wanted to keep the app anyway). So I proceeded with what I THOUGHT was the 7 day free trial as previously offered, but then they IMMEDIATELY charged me the $50, completely forgoing the trial. When I tried to appeal the charge TWICE, they denied my claim. So basically this is a scam and they will take your money right away after offering a free 7 days that never existed.
2025-10-21
It is working
The app is doing the job I wanted but doesn’t work how I thought it would. My “ screen time “ limit is of all screen time usage on your phone like messaging & phone time too, not just on social media. So when I picked my limit I did thinking of a social media goal and then was very surprised when I was way over on screen time.
Overall I am liking the app and my social media usage is way down along with my phone usage in general too.
I would love to be able to not count certain apps like phone without having to have the whole group of apps that they are in also be not counted. This would give a more accurate screen time usage for what my goals are.
2025-10-16
So great, so tired of having to pay yearly for something
I love this app & it’s really helpful but Im mad about the payment schedule. I’m actually kind fired up about it. Please consider changing it to a monthly pay system option instead of only yearly. I’m really disappointed in the developer, especially since the add says it was made it to get closer to God. Why not make it more accessible for others who are on the same path but don’t have extra money right now by making the $5 a month payment available instead of the yearly $60. Also considering there are other screen lock apps that are much cheaper for the year…. Yours may be unique, but it really alienates a lot of people who could use this to also get closer to God by blocking out distractions…..
2025-10-01
Med student and mom
My biggest problem was my phone. All my friends noticed that. I was always on it. I needed a way to stop myself and this app has been it.
I wouldn’t get up in the morning because I’d spend and hour hopping from app to app. Now I get 10 mins and I’m up. I’d catch myself on my phone while my no-screen time toddler played and now I’m playing with her and being present for her.
When studying, if my brain got bored, it would pick up my phone and I got distracted. I’ve been having better quality studying. It gives you that extra second of “are you sure?” Reminding me to stay on track. It also makes you feel bad kind of by saying you have to click the “I give up” button. So it’s helpful. Definitely recommend.
2025-09-25
Glitchy
Has this app decreased my screen time? Yes. Are there major issues? Also yes. I’ve had it for a couple of weeks and have been finding it super glitchy. It freezes a lot and doesn’t work after closing and reopening the app. I find the aggressive reminders to close the phone off putting. Especially as I actually need my phone for work, I don’t need pop ups shaming me. The “gamification” is under developed. You get a score - it’s unclear what exactly helps your score increase. While it looks like a competition, literally no rewards when you “win”. Not even a pop up or a graphic. What’s even the point? I’d love to be able to remove several apps that I need for work but can only chose two categories, so in the end the only thing that’s actually helpful is the pop up reminder when I go to open an app. That’s not work the cost of the app, not even close.
2025-09-24
Do not download this app!
Edit after developer response:
Thank you for replying. However, I did contact Apple (twice), and they explained to me that refund approvals depend on the developer’s decision. Both of my refund requests were declined. Apple even advised me to dispute the transaction with my credit card company, since it seems the developer did not approve the refund.
So while I appreciate the response here, the issue is still unresolved. I was charged for a year when I expected a 7-day trial and received no prior notification as promised. I never accessed the app’s content, deleted my account immediately, and yet I am still being denied a refund. This feels misleading and unfair, and I think potential users should be aware of this experience.
Primary review:
I saw an ad on Instagram and decided to try the app, since it offered a 7-day free trial. To my surprise, I was charged immediately for an entire year instead of getting the trial. I never even accessed the app’s content — I deleted my account and the app right away. When I requested a refund, Apple said I was ineligible.
What’s even more frustrating is that the app stated I would receive a notification before the trial expired, so I could cancel if I didn’t want to continue. Instead of honoring that, they charged me for a full year without warning. This feels misleading and unfair, and I don’t think customers should be treated this way.
2025-09-19
Surprisingly good
I’ve tried a lot of screen time or focus apps, and this is the only one I’ve found worth paying for. It takes some time to set up and adjust to make the right balance between too restrictive and just right, but once I found it, it magically reduced my time on brain drain apps. After using it for 4 months the iOS 26 update briefly caused it to stop working properly (it’s fixed now) but in the three days where I had it off my screen time skyrocketed. It’s a relief to have it back on.
The intentions feature is the killer feature here, I get to use my favorite time killer apps for a bit, but it turns off the faucet after preset intervals. I don’t feel like overriding and I still get a little access. Really great especially as someone who works in tech/media and needs to access these apps a bit during the day.
2025-09-18
I love this app. It’s almost perfect!
This app has helped so much in being cognizant of my social media consumption! I didn’t realize how often I just gravitated towards opening socials and doom scrolled. My only complaint is that I wish the timer would pause while you’re not on the app. If I can open Instagram
3x per day, 10 minutes each and I only open it for 2 minutes, I wish that the timer would save the 8 minutes for the next time I opened it. I find that it creates this hyper focus and I put everything else (conversation and attention to those around me) on the back burner because I only have a small window of time to use socials to unwind. It’s also annoying if I want to show someone a video then it means that I burn one of my uses to spend 30 seconds.
2025-09-15
Best app for reducing screen time
I’ve been using this app for several months and it helped reduce my screen time significantly. The competition aspect and trying to reach the next level and not be demoted is very motivating. Often I decide not to open an app because I don’t want to cancel my present session and lose the points. That said, it’s glitchy, especially the ability to see my current screen time or previous day, often its blank even after refreshing or closing the app. I also wish I could select specific apps that don’t count instead of just 2 categories. If I use maps, for example, I’ll go over my screen time goal because it’s not one of my categories. Overall though it’s the best screen time app I’ve tried!
2025-09-12
Great app, awesome customer service
I’ve seen this on an IG ad and I knew I had to try it. It really helps me be more intentional with how and when I use my phone instead of wasting my time doom scrolling. I like how it can still allow certain apps to function even when on a session like if I’m on work and I need to look something up. I meant to cancel before the trial ended but I missed the date so I got charged. I couldn’t afford it at the moment so I tried to cancel and get a refund through apple TWICE but they wouldn’t let me, so I reached out to them and they were quick to respond. I received my refund within a week!
Thanks Mary, who helped me out!
2025-08-23
Such a great help!
I’m just using the free version to control my Facebook usage at the moment, but I’m 8 days into my streak. I love that it puts my phone to bed for me at 10:00, like I set it to, and I actually go to bed instead of continuing to mindlessly scroll. I’m getting more sleep. It makes me stop and think before I open Facebook every time I have a minute with nothing better to do, especially because it uses up 10 minutes of my daily allotment every time I open it, so I have to save it for when I have a full ten minutes to spare. I don’t like that very much, because sometimes I just need to check an event location or end up getting distracted with something else and end up wasting 8 of my 10 minutes on Facebook. Buuut I guess that’s not all bad, and I can always change the settings. Thank you for this app!
2025-08-19
Good concept, needs improvements
I like this app and do feel like it’s helped me bring down my screen time. However, it feels like it’s an app from 2012, not 2025. I would love to see them improve the aesthetics of the app and add features like being able to look at your progress over time and being able to selectively exclude apps from screen time counts (instead of categories).
Unfortunately, I never received any notifications about my free trial ending (honestly, I didn’t even remember signing up), and I was automatically subscribed for a year, which is pretty expensive at over $60 annually. This was very frustrating as I don’t feel that the premium settings are worth it, and at the very least I would have appreciated a month subscription option over annual.
2025-08-15
Okay, but other apps do it better
I’ve been using other screen time blockers for years (notably one that was free and had no monthly subscription fee) and I do like that rather than trying to add friction to opening an app, there’s an incentive not to open it. However, I downloaded this because I saw Headspace and ClassPass were a part of their rewards system and was so excited since I am members of both. I was pretty disappointed to find out that the incentives are only good for people who don’t already have memberships with either of those platforms. They’re essentially just offering you free trials for services which you can access without this app anyway.
Additionally, my night and morning routine blocks were causing a lot of glitching because I was trying to block from 7pm - 12am and then from 12am - 7am and it seemed the am/pm part was getting messed up.
I also mirror other reviewers feedback that you should be able to determine which apps count towards your “bad” screen time. Some days I’m driving a lot so my Maps app will show 2+ hours, or I’m using apps for work that will inflate my total screen time. I would rather focus on the “bad” screen time (social media, games, etc).
I’ll be moving on to find a better screen time app for my goals.
2025-07-29
Only works some of the time
This app is amazing… when it’s functioning. When it isn’t, which has been at least twice a week lately, it’s the most obnoxious app on my phone. It will massively overcount screen time (when no other devices are even in use to mess it up) and send notifications every ten minutes as it ticks up hours - “you have reached two hours” then 10min later “you are approaching three hours” 10min “you have reached three hours” 10min “you are approaching four hours” etc. Meanwhile screen time on my phone never broke two hours. This morning I woke up to 22 notifications it had sent between 1-3 in the morning, counting up screen time (an hour every 20min or so) when none of my devices were in use. It’ll say I spent two hours on Instagram when that’s literally impossible because it shows three 7min unlocks, and native screen time shows 21min.
The worst part is there is ZERO customer support. The help section is just FAQs that don’t apply, and the feedback email feels like throwing complaints into a black hole - no responses and the problems don’t get fixed.
I regret spending so much money on this one. I wish it worked well all the time, because it’s great when it does.
2025-07-19
Works great, when it works
The downfall of this app is its lack of accuracy. If you have multiple apps open at once; for example messages, Kindle, and iTunes, it will overcount your hours. The developers do acknowledge this issue and are seeking to correct it, but I wish they’d waited to release the app until that was fixed, or included some way for people to correct it themselves. I would even be willing to “trade” a blocking session for the ability to correct the hours count. As in “Are your hours incorrect? Submit screenshots to prove it against your iPhone screen time and complete a blocking session to unlock correction mode for today.”
Other than that, this app has definitely helped my screen addiction lessen.
2025-07-06
Glitches
Considering that it’s required to pay a monthly subscription for this app I’m surprised at how many glitches I started to encounter after my free trial. I recently left my phone open over night for some photos to upload, then at the end of the next day this app said my total screen time for the day was over 36 hours 🤦♀️ obviously this doesn’t make sense because there’s 24 hours in a day…and sometimes during a blocking session I’ve tried to add or remove a blocked app and it doesn’t work, like I had messaging blocked but then realized that wasn’t practical and went to remove it from my list of blocked apps, but it remained blocked and I couldn’t open my messages so that was annoying. But I like the idea of this app and how these glitches get sorted out soon
2025-06-11
Worth every penny!
I was told there was a free trial on this app that I should check out. My intentions going in were just to check it out and cancel. I’m here to stay and happily so! I love that you can individually tailor the apps you want to use less of. As most of these reviews state, the disappointment when the app won’t open, or when it shuts down is such temporary frustration. Getting hours of your life back per day, and taking control of your social media instead of letting it control you, is such a powerful feeling. My only complaint is, due to the price, I’m using it to break the doom scrolling addiction, but don’t plan on paying for it for life. I wish the company would consider a significantly cheaper monthly fee after the initial year of subscription as it doesn’t appear to take much on their part to maintain. Please consider a quick nickel subscription for life vs. a slow dime approach for a season of life.
2025-05-30
Glitching
This week a glitch has started. I only have 1 app open and every 2-5 minutes I get a notification that 30 min has gone by…and then of course my screen time limit is exceeded right after waking up. I’ve been using the app for a month and this just started this week. I think there are some kinks that need to be worked out.
Here are some of my other thoughts: The app has brought awareness to my screen time. I appreciate how it helps, but but find it clunky like not being able to select individual apps to “turn off” specifically music. I’m listening and working not on my screen. I don’t like the snarky comments it uses to guilt you when you are still with your limits.
2025-01-03
Snarky criticism
So I wanted to reduce my screen time but the app comes with very judgmental snarky comments of you are on too long or over your goal time which just wasn’t my jam. I’m likely not their target audience but I don’t think it would be good to consider taking my a more considerate approach like what’s going on are you struggling mentally, do you need encouragement to get up or move on not congrats your scrolling qualifies you for the Boston Marathon. Encourage someone to make a healthier choice vs shame (which psychologically doesn’t change behavior in the long run anyways shame is not a true motivator, reward/intrinsic value is so this makes me look for an app that benefits the world/donates money/gives me bitcoin I don’t know hah something back not shame).
I also hate that it counts my drive time as phone use if I’m using nav or playing music. That is not legit screen time where it’s taking away from things.
I love the concept, and that it actually blocks apps but I will find one that doesn’t have crappy snark added in when asking why I’m scrolling so much (I was sick then my kid got sick).
2024-09-05
Life Changing
The day before downloading this app my screen time was 10 hours and 46 minutes. The day after downloading BePresent 5 hours and 27 minutes. Today less than 3 hours.
I tried the app for the length of the free trial and deleted the app after it was up. The day after I remember doomscrolling. I’ve since then gained my life back through BePresent.
My favorite feature is having an accountability partner that the app will text if I go over my screen time goal. BePresent offers more features than competitors. While other apps are charging over $100 for an annual plan. BePresent charges a quarter of their cost.
Please try this app!
2024-05-23
This App Is A Game Changer! So helpful!
I use this app daily and I’ve got to say, it’s a beautiful concept. I’ve noticed that my screen time has dropped dramatically thanks to the hourly reminders! One of my favorite parts of the app is the calculator that shows you how much time you’re getting back across your lifetime by saving X hours per day. It really puts how much time we waste into perspective and reminds me of why I wanted to make it a point to be more present to my surroundings instead of my phone. I liked this app so much that I reached out to the founders to understand their mission, and they care so much about the user experience and getting people less dependent on their phones. We need more apps like this one in the world! Thank you Jack and Charles for bringing such a wonderful idea to life! Cheers
2024-02-13
It’s Okay
I’ll probably continue looking for an app that works better. 1) Having to unblock whole categories of apps is not helpful. For instance, I need to listen to things while working. Sometimes music, sometimes podcasts that are only available on certain streaming platforms. But I don’t want to unblock all entertainment because then I’ll have access to things like Instagram and Reddit, which I really do want to block. I don’t want my streaming to count against my screentime because I’m not even looking at my phone. Allegedly this is an Apple issue, but the app still made it seem like if I paid for it, I would have control over what I block. 2) There aren’t actual rewards. There are advertisements. The only “reward,” besides enhanced productivity and reduced reliance on my phone, is the accrual of points, which is skewed due to item 1 above. 3) The schedules don’t work well. Sometimes they block apps, sometimes they don’t. I do all of my blocking manually. 4) There aren’t extra points for going over your blocking session. This actually ENCOURAGES me to interact with my phone more because if I want to maximize points, I have to start a new blocking session as soon as one finishes. Why not check a few apps while things are unblocked, right?!
The app has promise, but definite room for improvement here.
2023-12-14
Developers care about the experience
I was having a few issues with the app and had a complete melt down. The developer not only reached out with a fix but also took the information and used it to fix the glitch!
This app really helped me with my doom scrolling problem and made me realize dropping into a black hole of miserable online news stories doesn’t have to be how my morning begins.
My two bits of advice are to just start with a few apps to freeze in the beginning and build on that instead of jumping into the deep end of the detox all at once and review carefully the steps to restore disabled apps in case you suddenly need to use one for work or something so you aren’t panicking in the moment.
I do believe this app can really help folks and I got more productivity out of my day overall by blocking specific apps routinely.
2023-11-15
TERRIBLE. AVOID.
My screen time often doesn’t update at all, even after refreshing. As this is the reason for this apps existence, it’s hard to recommend it. Beyond that, the “rewards” all seem to be just promotions that the companies are already offering to get you to sign up. Whoop already offers a free month and a free hand to new users, Headspace offers a free month to new users, and so forth. I really want to like this app, as the idea behind it is great, but it - itself - is not great. Update: beyond all the above issues, it turns out that even the timer doesn’t work correctly. Yesterday I definitely went over my limit for screen time, but this morning the app congratulated me for staying under my goal. As to why it has so many good reviews — I got an email from them saying I’d be entered in a contest in exchange for a five star review. Avoid this garbage app.
And the response from the developer didn’t address any of the other issues with this app. Namely that they’re bribing people for 5 star reviews and all the “awards” you can get are actually promotions that are already offered by the companies. The idea for the app is good, but the execution is a lie and should be called out as such.
2023-04-18
Great idea, but the app doesn’t work correctly
I've noticed that Present very significantly underreports the amount of time I’m using my phone.
For example, it doesn't count the time I'm using incognito mode on safari, which is a bit of a problem because that means Present underreports my screen time, allowing me to inadvertently "cheat," which I really don't like. Also, if you download an app, use it, and then delete it, the time you were using it doesn’t get reported. Those are just two of the “bugs” I’ve found, but there certainly are more.
I was really excited about this app, but if it doesn’t correctly track my time, it just can’t work as intended. I mean, just today I’ve used my phone for more than twice the amount of time than it thinks I’ve used. I know this because A) the built in screen time app says I’ve been using my phone for 2.5 hours and B) when you’re actively reading on your phone for two straight hours, you know it’s been two straight hours because of clocks, but present says I’ve used my phone for a little over an hour.
If they fixed these issues, I’d happily use it. All it needs to do is accurately track what the screen time iOS app says, but it can’t do that, apparently.
2023-02-14
Easy, effective app that’s also fun to use!
I downloaded this app off in hopes of better productivity. I really struggle with screen time, even when I’m super aware of it!
Originally I really liked the betting against myself (basically if I lost, I had to pay) and although it’s been sunsetted, I’ve now learned more about the competitions against others as well as my friends!
I used to average 4-5 hours a day, now with Present I’m below 3 on a daily basis, sometimes even below two. I LOVE that it notifies me of time increments spent, and gives me warning when I’m getting close to hours spent on my phone.
I also was blown away when the founder of the company sent out an email asking for a phone call to give feed back. Thinking I’d speak to a staff member (or even a machine) I was PLEASANTLY surprised to hear from Jack himself! I love the fact that an app developer is still staying on top of feedback from his “customers”!
All around, the app is super useful of making me more mindful about my screen time.
Even as I write this review 😂 I’m still working on inviting my friends to compete with me (which I find super cool) and getting my family on board as well!