Block Shopping Apps: Tools That Actually Work

When Willpower Isn't Enough

You've tried budgeting. You've tried 'being more mindful.' Yet somehow you're still opening Amazon 'just to browse' and ending up with a cart full of things you don't need.

The problem isn't discipline—it's that shopping apps are designed by teams of engineers optimizing for purchases. You need technical barriers, not just good intentions.

Method 1: Built-in Phone Controls

Your phone has free blocking options:

• •iPhone: Settings → Screen Time → App Limits → Add Limit → Shopping category
• •Android: Settings → Digital Wellbeing → Dashboard → Select app → Set timer
• •Note: These can be bypassed with your passcode—have someone else set it for stronger enforcement

Method 2: App Deletion

The most effective strategy is also the simplest: delete shopping apps entirely. You can still shop via browser if you really need something, but the extra friction reduces impulse purchases dramatically.

No app icon on your home screen = no mindless opening during boredom.

Method 3: Accountability-Based Blocking

Accountable AI offers a unique approach: shopping apps stay blocked until you've completed productive activities. Want to browse Amazon? First complete a workout, finish a work task, or practice a hobby.

This doesn't just block—it redirects. The urge to shop becomes motivation for positive behaviors.

Method 4: Browser Extensions

If you shop on desktop, block there too:

• •BlockSite: Blocks specified websites on a schedule
• •News Feed Eradicator: Removes recommendation sections that trigger browsing
• •Delayed Gratification: Adds a 30-second delay before loading shopping sites