CogniFocus is an Android focus timer and app blocker that uses a reactive Goblin companion to interrupt distractions before a quick check becomes a lost session.
What is CogniFocus?
CogniFocus is a focus timer that combines app blocking, recovery nudges, and a companion system to keep you accountable during sessions. It takes a user-defined focus duration and a list of apps to block as input, and produces real-time distraction prevention, Goblin reactions, streaks, XP, and Focus Shards as output. The app is built for Android (with an iOS waitlist open) and was created by Qasim Khan.
Key Features
- Shield App Blocking — Blocks selected apps during a focus session, with the Goblin reacting (neutral, annoyed, cheerful, angry) based on your behavior.
- Recovery Nudges — After a slip into a blocked app, nudges you back without ending the session, keeping the streak alive.
- Progression Loop — Earn streaks, XP, and Focus Shards for clean sessions; these unlock rewards and companion affinity.
- Companion System — The Goblin is the first companion; Monk, Buddy, and Wizard are planned to offer different accountability styles.
- Multiple Blocking Modes (Pro) — Shield (reactive blocking during sessions), Manual Block (proactive blocking without a timer), and Focus DND (silent distraction-free time).
- Planned Sessions & Reminders (Pro) — Schedule sessions in advance and get reminders.
- Focus Shards — A currency earned through focus sessions and streaks, used to unlock progression items.
- Usage Access Permission — CogniFocus uses Android's Usage Access permission to detect the active app and trigger blocking — it does not read content.
Who Is It For?
- The Quick Checker — Opens Instagram for a few seconds and ends up 27 minutes later; CogniFocus catches the drift before it compounds.
- The App Switcher — Switches from work to TikTok the moment the timer starts; Shield blocks the distraction mid-switch.
- The Timer Ignorer — Starts focus sessions but leaves them running in the background; recovery nudges pull attention back.
- The Muscle-Memory Scroller — Unlocks social apps automatically without conscious thought; the Goblin’s reaction breaks the autopilot.
What Can You Do With CogniFocus?
- Study sessions: Set a timer, block Instagram and TikTok, and let the Goblin track your progress — one distraction doesn’t ruin the whole session.
- Work sprints: Use Shield to block distractions during deep work, with recovery nudges if you slip.
- Build focus habits: Track streaks and earn XP to gamify the process of staying on task.
How Does It Work?
- Set a focus session duration and choose apps to block via Shield.
- Start the timer; Shield monitors the foreground app.
- If a blocked app opens, the Goblin reacts and a recovery nudge appears — tap to return to your task.
- Complete a clean session to earn XP, streaks, and Focus Shards.
Pricing
Freemium model. Free covers the core focus loop with lighter limits. Pro adds three blocking modes, Planned Sessions, reminders, recovery nudges, and restore support. A Limitless tier is planned with full limits.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Real-time distraction blocking with immediate feedback; gamified progression that motivates consistency; unique companion system that makes focus feel active. Cons: Android only currently (iOS waitlist open); requires Usage Access permission for full functionality.
FAQ
Is CogniFocus free?
Yes, CogniFocus has a Free tier that includes the core focus loop and Goblin reactions. Pro adds advanced blocking modes and features. No time limit on the free version.
How does Shield block apps?
During an active session, Shield watches for blocked apps using Android’s Usage Access permission. When a blocked app is detected, it interrupts the scroll and shows a Goblin reaction before you lose focus.
Does CogniFocus work with ADHD?
Yes. The app is built for study blocks and ADHD-friendly focus loops, using immediate feedback and recovery nudges rather than harsh penalties.
What happens if I slip into a blocked app?
Recovery nudges help you return without ending the session. The Goblin reacts, but one distraction does not ruin your streak or session.
What permissions does CogniFocus need?
Usage Access to detect which app is in foreground, and Display over Other Apps to show the Shield screen. These are used only for focus protection.
What are Focus Shards?
Focus Shards are earned by completing clean sessions and maintaining streaks. They unlock progression rewards and companion systems inside the app.
What do Free, Pro, and Limitless include?
Free covers the basic timer with lighter limits. Pro adds Shield, Manual Block, Focus DND, Planned Sessions, reminders, and recovery nudges. Limitless, if released, will have no limits.
Start Free on Android · Product Hunt Launch — 100% off first month.
