$9 key locks smartphone apps via NFC to combat doomscrolling
The Autonomous Key is a new solution to an old problem. While many smartphones already offer the option to limit how often an app can be opened per day or how much time can be spent in an app before it is locked, such software solutions can be circumvented very easily and conveniently.
The Autonomous Key is designed to make it less convenient to use apps that are blocked. If you try to open pre-selected apps, such as Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, a key appears on the screen instead. To access the app, you must then scan the NFC chip located inside the plastic key. Since it’s a passive NFC chip, the key doesn’t need to be charged.
The accompanying smartphone app provides information on how often the key is used and how much time was spent in locked apps. An artificial intelligence system analyzes this data to motivate users to use the key less frequently. According to Autonomous, the key is designed to cut the time users spend on social media apps by nearly half, thereby improving sleep and supporting impulse control. The key works with both Android smartphones and the Apple iPhone ($745 on Amazon), and does not require a subscription.
Pricing and availability
The Autonomous Key is available in the manufacturer’s online store for $9. Shipping within the U.S. is free, but Autonomous does not currently ship internationally.
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