Bloom App Alternative: Free, Open Source iPhone App Blocker

By Ali | January 20, 2026

Stop paying $39 for Bloom's hardware. Foqos gives you the same NFC blocking plus QR codes, timers, habit tracking, and more - completely free.

4.9/5 | 1000+ Reviews on App Store

Why Switch from Bloom to Foqos?

Bloom is a popular NFC-based app blocker that requires purchasing their $39 hardware device. While it works, you're paying a premium for what should be accessible technology. Foqos offers the same core functionality - and more - completely free.

Here's the truth: NFC tags cost under $1 each online. QR codes are free to print. The technology behind physical app blocking isn't expensive - the marketing is.

Foqos vs Bloom: Feature Comparison

Feature Foqos Bloom
Price 100% Free $39/device
Open Source Yes No
NFC Support Yes (any tag) Yes (their device only)
QR Code Support Yes (free) No
Timer + Physical Unlock Yes No
Habit Tracking Yes No
Smart Breaks Yes No
Live Activities Yes No
Website Blocking Yes Yes
Privacy (No Cloud Sync) Yes No

What You Get with Foqos (That Bloom Doesn't Offer)

  • QR Code Blocking: Don't want to buy NFC tags? Print a QR code for free and use it to start/stop blocking sessions.
  • Timer-Based Blocking with Physical Unlock: Set a timer and require physical NFC/QR scan to end early. Bloom doesn't offer this.
  • Habit Tracking: See your focus streaks and session history at a glance.
  • Smart Breaks: Take a quick break without ending your entire blocking session.
  • Live Activities: See your blocking status on your Lock Screen and Dynamic Island.
  • Mix & Match Strategies: Combine manual, NFC, QR, and timer-based blocking any way you want.
  • True Privacy: Open-source, no cloud sync, no tracking. Your data stays on your device.

How to Switch from Bloom to Foqos

  1. Download Foqos - It's free on the App Store. No account needed.
  2. Get any NFC tag or print a QR code - Use the NFC tag you already have, buy cheap ones online (under $1 each), or print a free QR code.
  3. Create your blocking profiles - Set up profiles for work, study, bedtime, or whatever you need.
  4. Start blocking - Tap your NFC tag or scan your QR code to begin. Hide it somewhere inconvenient, and focus.

What Users Are Saying

"Switched from Bloom and never looked back. The QR code feature alone makes it worth it - I have codes printed at my office, gym, and bedroom. No expensive hardware needed."

- App Store Review

"Love this app. The many options for how to enable/disable blocking modes is exactly what I was looking for."

- rahuggins, App Store Review

Ready to switch from Bloom? Download Foqos free today.

Other Alternatives to Explore

Looking at other app blockers? Check out our comparisons: