Autonomous Key Ships $9 NFC Device to Lock Distracting Apps for 60 Minutes
Updated
Updated · TechCrunch · Aug 1
Autonomous Key Ships $9 NFC Device to Lock Distracting Apps for 60 Minutes
3 articles · Updated · TechCrunch · Aug 1
Summary
$9 Autonomous Key has begun shipping in beta after Kickstarter, using an NFC tag and companion app to physically lock selected apps until users scan the key.
60-minute unlock sessions are meant to add friction that timer-based blockers lack, letting users leave the key elsewhere so reopening Instagram or TikTok becomes a deliberate step.
Autonomous prices the device well below rivals including Blok at $29, Unpluq at $26.50 and Brick at $59, while avoiding subscriptions or premium tiers.
Testing found NFC scans sometimes needed multiple attempts, making it less suited for essential apps; if the key is lost, users currently must reinstall the app until a backup unlock arrives.
Android 8.0 and iOS 15 support, multi-phone pairing and AI habit summaries position the device as a low-cost screen-time tool for individuals and families.