A new way to beat doomscrolling: 5 apps that will get you outside

The concept behind these apps is based on a simple observation from behavioral psychology: outright bans rarely work, but a small, tangible obstacle does. Unlocking a standard screen lock takes just one tap, but standing up, leaving the house, and finding some grass requires effort and time. It is this pause that often breaks the automatic habit of reaching for the phone.

An additional benefit is physical activity and contact with nature, which people with sedentary lifestyles often lack. Developers of such apps cite research on the benefits of spending time outdoors for improving concentration and reducing anxiety.

The user chooses which apps to restrict—social media, games, or videos. When the time limit is exhausted, access to the selected apps is blocked. To unlock them again, the user must go outside and photograph a real-world object, such as grass, a tree, or a leaf. The built-in AI verifies the photo to ensure it is not a screenshot or an indoor plant, after which access is granted for a new period of time.

Touch Grass

The user selects which apps to block. To regain access, they must go outside and photograph grass, which is recognized by the built-in AI. The app also allows users to track screen time and streaks of days without doomscrolling. The developer is British Ris Kentish, who created the app after his own struggle with phone addiction. 

For Android users

For iOS users

Outscroll

Instead of checking photos, it verifies GPS coordinates: the app confirms that the user has actually left the building and gone outside before removing the block on selected apps.

For Android users

Nature Unlock

Instead of just grass, the app accepts trees, flowers, leaves—any touch of nature. The creators explain the concept through behavioral psychology: rather than imposing a strict ban, the app creates a small obstacle that encourages the user to change their environment and go outside.

For Android users

For iOS users

Sunlock

It works as a morning ritual: the phone can only be unlocked after the user has gone out into the sun and fresh air—meaning they literally start the day not with a screen, but with the outdoors.

For iOS users

Steppin

The user chooses which apps or websites to restrict. When the available screen time runs out, Steppin blocks the selected services. To unlock them again, the user must walk a certain number of steps. The app syncs with the smartphone’s pedometer or Apple Health and automatically awards new minutes of usage. This approach helps replace automatic doomscrolling with physical activity and gradually fosters healthier digital habits.

For iOS users