Unpluq Review: The $26 NFC Tag That Blocks Distractions

Published Jun 4, 2025

Unpluq is a screen-time app with a twist. In addition to its app, Unpluq uses a physical NFC tag to help you stay off distracting apps.

Here’s how it works: you choose which apps to block. To open them, you have to scan the tag. So no tag, no access.

In this review, I’ll break down how Unpluq works, what I like about it, what needs work, and whether it’s worth buying.

Let’s dive in.

What Is Unpluq

Unpluq is a screen-time app paired with a physical NFC tag. The tag is a small rubberized square, about the size of a quarter, and comes with a mini carabiner. It pairs via NFC, not Bluetooth, so there’s no battery and no connection needed.

The tag acts as a barrier. You can block certain apps and only regain access by physically scanning the tag. It’s one of the few tools I’ve found that adds just the right amount of friction.

How Unpluq Blocks Apps (and What Makes It Different)

Unpluq works by letting you lock specific apps. You then complete a challenge (aka "distraction barrier") to unlock them:

1. Tap Pattern: Tap dots as they appear on the screen, whack-a-mole style.
2. Shake: Shake your phone, wait a second, repeat.
3. Scroll: Scroll to the bottom of a long and empty browser page
4. Unpluq tag: Scan the Unpluq NFC tag
5. Walk: Complete X number of steps (Android only)
6. QR Code: Scan a QR code on Unpluq's website

You can choose the challenge or let the app randomize it. Each challenge can be set to a difficulty level from 1 to 5.

For example, here is how the levels work for the "Tap pattern" barrier:

• ✅ Level 1: three taps
• ✅ Level 2: seven taps
• ✅ Level 3: thirteen taps
• ✅ Level 4: nineteen taps
• ✅ Level 5: twenty nine taps

(Level 5 took me 20 seconds to complete.)

My Experience Using Unpluq

I already own the Brick and didn’t expect Unpluq to be much different, aside from being smaller and... yellow.

But I was pleasantly surprised. The Unpluq app includes thoughtful features the Brick lacks, like unlock challenges you can use instead of the NFC tag.

The app is clean and bug-free. I tested every feature—tag, schedule automation, emergency mode, and random barriers. Everything worked exactly as it should. That’s rare for an app that overrides native phone settings.

👉 How I Use the Tag

I keep the tag at home. That makes it impossible to unlock apps impulsively while I’m at work. It’s been more effective than any app-only blocker I’ve tried.

• During work: I block games and Safari from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday to Friday.
• In the evenings: I block social media because I tend to scroll most when I get home after work.
• On weekends: I block email and messaging apps (like Discord and Slack) so I can fully disconnect from work.

This takes a bit of self-awareness, but once you've got your schedules set up, it's all automated. You don't need to remember to lock distractions. The app does it for you.

And you can still use essentials like Google Maps, ride-sharing apps, and banking while the big time-wasters like Instagram and email stay locked.

How Much Does Unpluq Cost?

1. The free app

The Unpluq app offers a free plan that lets you block two apps and create one schedule. You can only use two types of unlock challenges with this plan: Shake and Tap Pattern.

2. The tag

The Unpluq Tag itself costs $26.50 and is a one-time purchase. It’s a small, rubberized NFC tag that comes with a carabiner for your keychain or bag. You’ll need to order it directly from Unpluq’s website (shipping is available internationally).

3. The subscriptions

To use the NFC tag (or any of the other unlock methods), you’ll need the Premium or Family plan. On a paid plan, you can lock up to 49 apps and create unlimited schedules, i.e. automations.

You can't use the Unpluq tag unless you're on a paid plan. And while the free version of the app is pretty cool, the real power of Unpluq comes with the subscription.

Use promo code WHATIFIDINT at checkout and save 20% on all products and subscriptions.

Unpluq vs Alternatives

1. Brick

Brick is an iOS app paired with an NFC device. You tap your phone to the Brick to lock or unlock your apps—a clever way to add real-world friction. It supports custom schedules and is simple to use, but the device is required, and it’s only available for iOS.

👉 Read my review of the Brick app

2. Forest App

Forest App is a fun and visual timer that lets you “grow trees” by staying off your phone. It’s lightweight and motivational, but easy to ignore when you’re deep in a dopamine loop. Great for light accountability, but not for deep behavioral change.

3. Freedom

Freedom is a robust app blocker that works across computers and phones. It supports scheduling, blocks internet access, and syncs your sessions across devices. But it still relies on your self-discipline—there’s no physical barrier to stop you from just turning it off if you really want to.

4. Jomo

Jomo is a straightforward screen time manager. It helps you track and limit your app usage, supports custom schedules, and gives you insights into your habits. There’s no physical device to tap, so it’s purely digital—but if you’re just looking for scheduling and insights, it’s a solid option.

Bottom line: Unpluq is unique because it combines real-world friction with customizable software features. It gives you just enough resistance to make mindless scrolling harder, without forcing you to ditch your smartphone completely.

Unpluq Tag FAQs

1. Can I use the Unpluq Tag without a subscription?

No. The tag only works if you’re on a paid plan.

The free version lets you block two apps and use the shake or tap pattern to unlock them, but if you want the physical tag to do the heavy lifting, you’ll need the Premium plan.

2. What happens if I lose my Unpluq Tag?

You can mark it as lost in the app. Unpluq will switch your schedules to use one of the other barriers (like shaking your phone) until you find it or replace it.

You also get one “emergency mode” per day, which gives you five minutes of access without any challenge. I haven’t lost mine, but I’ve tested the fallback, and it worked fine.

3. Does the Unpluq Tag work on all phones?

It works on iPhones 8 and up and most Androids that have NFC.

If your phone has tap-to-pay, you’re probably good. But if you’ve got an older or budget model, double-check that NFC is supported.

4. Is it possible to quickly lock or unlock apps, or do I always have to default to a schedule?

Sort of. There’s no “lock now” button. But you can create a schedule that blocks apps all the time (like Monday to Sunday, 12AM–11:59PM) and toggle it on or off. That gives you something close to a manual mode, even if it feels like a workaround.

5. Can I use one Unpluq Tag with several devices?

Yes. One tag can be used with multiple devices.

So if you're thinking of using Unpluq for your kids too, you don't need a separate tag for each phone or tablet. Get the Family plan (Lite for up to 3 devices or Full for unlimited devices), one tag, and you're all set.

If you have other questions, Unpluq has an extensive FAQ on their website.

Final Verdict: Should You Get the Unpluq Tag?

If screen-time apps haven’t worked for you, if you are constantly extending time limits, Unpluq is worth trying. The tag adds just enough friction to interrupt the habit.

At $5.33/month plus a one-time $26 tag, it’s a low-cost way to create real boundaries with your phone.

It’s best for people who want automation with intention. Your schedules run quietly in the background, but every time you try to access a blocked app, Unpluq makes you stop and ask, “Do I really want to open this right now?”

~ Ben
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