Autonomous Key is a $9 NFC key that requires a physical scan to unlock distracting apps on your phone. Unlike typical screen-time apps that rely on willpower, this device forces you to leave the key elsewhere, turning an impulse to open apps like Instagram or TikTok into a deliberate effort.
Each unlock session lasts up to 60 minutes before the apps are automatically locked again. The key works with Android 8.0 or later and iOS 15 or later, and one key can pair with multiple phones.
The companion app provides AI-powered insights, tracking how often you unlock apps and when. The AI summarises habits with a deliberately sassy personality, for example suggesting the key wasn't far enough away if you unlock apps repeatedly.
At $9, it is considerably cheaper than competitors like Blok ($29), Unpluq ($26.50) and Brick ($59). Brick offers extra features like Sleep Mode and blocking in-app purchases, but Autonomous Key covers core functionality at a lower price.
During testing, the NFC scan occasionally required multiple attempts, so it may not suit apps you need throughout the day. If you lose the key, the current workaround is to uninstall and reinstall the companion app. The company says it is developing a backup unlock method for a future update.
Autonomous Key is currently in beta following a Kickstarter campaign and began shipping earlier this month. It is available in five colours: pink, orange, blue, gray and brown.