Akiflow ◆
Akiflow is an AI-powered time-blocking planner and calendar that merges tasks, calendar, and inbox into one keyboard-first command bar.
from $19/mo
About One Sec
One Sec is a scientifically backed screen time app that intercepts app launches on iOS and Android. When you tap Instagram, TikTok, or another addictive app, it overlays a guided breathing exercise or interruption (like mirror, rotate phone, or typed reflection) for a few seconds. This friction breaks the impulse loop, helping you open apps intentionally rather than reflexively.
What problem does it solve?
Social media and news apps are designed to hook you with dopamine hits. One Sec interrupts that cycle, giving your prefrontal cortex time to override the urge. Clinical studies with the Max-Planck Institute and Heidelberg University show users open apps 1,357% less often on average and gain 1–2 more hours of sleep per week. It’s trusted by governments in Germany and Denmark and recommended by psychologists worldwide.
Who is it for—and not for?
Best for anyone who reflexively opens social media dozens of times a day, wants friction over hard blocks, and prefers a gentle nudge. Not ideal if you need an all-or-nothing app blocker or want to block websites on desktop (though a browser extension exists).
Real use cases
- Stop doomscrolling before bed—add a long breathing pause to Twitter and news apps after 10 PM.
- Stay focused during work hours by setting a schedule to block Instagram and TikTok entirely.
- Replace a bad habit with a healthy one—use the journaling or intention tracking prompt before opening YouTube.
Key features
- Breathing prompt — A guided inhale/exhale before the app opens, clinically proven to reduce opens.
- Per-app settings — Customize which apps trigger the pause and for how long (e.g., 5 seconds for Twitter, 15 for Instagram).
- Usage stats — See how many times you’ve been ‘saved’ from opening an app, plus weekly comparisons.
- Focus mode — Temporarily disable the pause for specific periods (e.g., lunch break).
- Widget support — Quick toggle from your home screen to pause or resume interruptions.
- Healthy alternatives — Replace the app with a journaling, intention, or emotion check-in prompt.
- Browser extension — Extends the same friction to distracting websites on desktop.
One Sec Pricing
One Sec pricing: Free · from $4.99/mo. Billing model: Freemium.
Free
Basic breathing interruption for one app, usage stats, and one focus mode slot. No account or subscription required.
Pro — $4.99/month (or $39.99/year)
Unlimited app interruptions, per-app customization, all interruption types (mirror, rotate phone, typed text, 4-7-8 breathing), browser extension, healthy alternatives, journaling, and emotion tracking. Includes a 7-day free trial.
Family — $7.99/month (or $69.99/year)
All Pro features for up to 6 family members, shared customization, and a family dashboard. Includes a 7-day free trial.
No long-term commitment. Cancel anytime. Study referenced: “57% reduction in app opens” is based on a peer-reviewed study with the Max-Planck Institute.
Frequently asked questions
Is One Sec free?
Yes, One Sec has a free tier that includes basic breathing interruption for one app, usage stats, and one focus mode slot. No account or credit card needed.
How much does One Sec cost?
The free plan is available indefinitely. Pro costs $4.99/month or $39.99/year. Family plan is $7.99/month or $69.99/year. Both paid plans include a 7-day free trial.
How does One Sec actually reduce screen time?
When you tap a distracting app, One Sec overlays a breathing exercise (or other interruption) for a few seconds. This breaks the automatic impulse, letting you decide consciously whether to open the app. Studies show this reduces app opens by 57% on average.
Who is One Sec best for?
It’s best for people who reflexively open social media (Instagram, TikTok, Twitter) multiple times a day and want a gentle, friction-based nudge rather than a hard block. It’s also great for parents helping teens manage screen time.
What are the best alternatives to One Sec?
Popular alternatives include Opal (stronger blocking features), Freedom (cross-device blocking), and Moment (detailed time tracking + coaching). One Sec is unique for its clinically studied interruption-based approach.
What is the main limitation of One Sec?
It only works on smartphones (iOS and Android) and is less effective for desktop usage. The free plan is limited to one app. Some users find the breathing prompt annoying and disable it.
