What it is: BrainShield is a free Android app I built that blocks short-form feeds (Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, YouTube Shorts, TikTok, X video tab) at the screen level — so you keep the apps (DMs, browsing, chat) but lose the infinite feed.
Why it's different: it detects the screen you're on, not just the app name. Renamed or modded feed clients don't dodge it.
How it works: – Accessibility screen detection closes the feed in real time — no VPN needed. – Optional local DNS sinkhole (not a proxying proxy) so blocked domains fail in every app and browser. – Heavy Focus Mode locks switches behind a fresh 16-char code with streaks; Pomodoro timer, water reminders, time-saved counter included.
State: shipped, free, no account, one banner ad. Android 8.0+. Single dev.
Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ciertolab.focusguard
Source: r/pomodoro · by /u/viper6098