Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Zenbox is a physical app blocker connected to your smartphone via NFC. You hold your phone to the Zenbox – and your chosen distraction apps are blocked. To unlock them again, you have to consciously return to the Zenbox. That makes it harder to outsmart yourself.

Included in the purchase price are:

• The physical Zenbox
• Full access to the Zenbox app – without subscriptions or extra costs

Because focus is a decision. Apps alone are too easy to swipe away. Zenbox moves the starting point outward – through a conscious, tactile moment. You don’t activate your focus on your phone. You activate it with an action.

Zenbox works in four steps:

1. You install the Zenbox app.
2. You select the apps that distract you.
3. You hold your smartphone to the Zenbox.
4. Focus mode is activated.

The selected apps are blocked or heavily restricted – until you consciously unlock again.

Yes – and to be specific: in Stuttgart-Ost. In a time when almost everything is produced in China, that may sound unusual. We do it out of conviction.

The Zenbox is 3D-printed in Germany – with precise engineering. It features a magnetic connection that holds securely and needs no battery or power source.

The Zenbox has been on the market since May 2025 – with no complaints so far. We offer a 3-year warranty. In the event of a manufacturing defect or hardware failure, you’ll receive a replacement device free of charge – simply contact our support team at support@thezenbox.de.

Zenbox is intended for users aged 13 and over. For younger users, we recommend setting it up together with a parent. Zenbox is designed primarily as a personal self-control tool – not a system of force, but a conscious commitment tool.

At the moment we don’t have special gift wrapping – but Zenbox is the perfect gift. You’re giving the gift of time regained. What could be better?

Zenbox works with iPhones running iOS 16.2 or later. Android (Beta): The Zenbox app is already available for Google Pixel and Samsung smartphones; more manufacturers are currently being tested. For other Android devices, you can join the Android waitlist. It does not work with iPad, MacBook or other devices without NFC.

No. Neither the iPad nor MacBooks or other computers are supported, as these devices have no built-in NFC. Zenbox works exclusively with smartphones (iPhone running iOS 16.2 or later).

Yes. The app runs in beta – it is already available for Google Pixel and Samsung devices. More manufacturers are currently being tested. Information and waitlist for further models: Zenbox for Android.

No. The Zenbox needs neither power nor regular charging. It uses passive NFC technology and works without a battery or external power source.

Yes! One Zenbox works with as many smartphones as you like – any device with the Zenbox app installed can use the box. In the same way, one smartphone can be connected to several Zenboxes at once, with no extra configuration needed. This is handy if, for example, you have one Zenbox at home and one at the office – both simply work with your app.

No. There is no technical limit. As many smartphones as you like can be locked through one Zenbox at the same time.

You can block apps, app categories and websites. Common examples: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, messaging apps, email or shopping. System apps such as Phone usually stay available.

There are two modes:

• Blocklist: certain apps or sites are blocked
• Allowlist (allow mode): only certain apps or sites are allowed, everything else is blocked

Yes. Blocks, schedules and all core features run completely offline.

Yes – there are home-screen and lock-screen widgets showing focus time, streak and daily affirmations.

Yes. Schedules and location rules are kept active in the background through Apple’s Screen Time and Location APIs. After a device restart, everything is restored automatically the next time you open the app.

You lose your streak, all your routines and all your progress. The app explicitly warns you about this when you long-press the app icon.

You are probably blocking many apps at once. Apple has a restriction beyond 40 apps. That’s why in this case we recommend using allow mode. Select only the apps you really want to use – these likewise may not exceed 40 apps.

In the app, choose the „Block URLs“ mode. There you can block specific websites, or in allow mode permit only certain sites.

To block Safari with Zenbox, you need to have iOS 16.4 or higher installed. When selecting the apps to block, search for „Safari“ and choose it.

Safari cannot be blocked entirely – but you can block specific websites through the URL blocking mode, or in allow mode permit only very few sites.

In the app you’ll find a guide on how to set up an iOS shortcut during an active session that prevents access to Settings.

Yes, you can set the duration in the modes area of the app.

Yes! In the Zenbox app you’ll find a guide on how to set up an iOS shortcut for this.

Technically, on smartphones almost anything can be bypassed. Zenbox is not a system of force – it’s a commitment tool. It makes bypassing a conscious act rather than an impulsive one. The physical step to the device is the decisive hurdle.

Zenbox also offers a Strict Mode that closes off known loopholes and makes deleting the app as well as risky changes in Settings during a session harder. If you additionally set up “prevent uninstall” and lock the system settings, bypassing becomes very difficult: quickly uninstalling or tweaking the system settings during focus is then practically impossible.

Zenbox is designed primarily as a personal tool for self-control. For use within a family, we recommend setting it up together with your child – that way it becomes a shared ritual rather than an imposed control tool.

Zenbox offers six different routine types:

• Timer – a manual focus session for a set duration
• Schedules – automatically active at set times and on chosen weekdays
• Location – blocks when you are at a certain place (e.g. work)
• Steps – apps stay locked until you reach your daily step goal
• App limits – blocks when you have used an app for too long
• Open limits – blocks when you have opened an app too often

Schedules, location routines and templates are currently only available on iOS and are in a beta. If you would like access, just send us a short message (for example to support@thezenbox.de) – we will gladly give you beta access on request. A regular app update with a stable rollout and wider availability is planned soon.

Only after a Zenbox scan. This keeps you from simply changing your rules in a moment of weakness.

The block lifts automatically and you receive a push notification.

Your streak is your ongoing series of days on which you had a focus session. If the streak is broken, you start again from the beginning – a gentle nudge toward consistency.

Unlimited. You can create as many routines as you like.

Yes. There are ready-made templates for productivity, sleep, healthy habits and more – including step templates such as „Marathon preparation“. Templates are currently part of the beta on iOS; see the question „Schedules, location & templates: availability and beta (iOS)“.

Yes. You can deactivate Zenbox for individual days at any time – for example on holidays or while you are on vacation. You will find the setting in the app.

This feature is currently not available.

Yes. In the app settings you can choose to allow a Zenbox session to be started at any time without scanning the Zenbox. Ending a session is then only possible once the set time has elapsed – or by physically scanning the Zenbox. This gives you a lasting block with mindful unlocking.

Yes. The schedule always takes priority – while an active schedule is running, the block stays active regardless of the maximum duration. The maximum duration applies in addition, outside of the schedule.

Block all your distracting apps, plan a focus block of 60–90 minutes and place your phone out of reach. Zenbox switches on work mode – not your willpower alone.

Yes. It is ideal for Pomodoro sessions (25- or 50-minute focus blocks). Before each block, simply hold your phone to the Zenbox – and off you go.

Yes. Activate it during dinner or playtime, for example. Only the phone and camera stay available; everything distracting is blocked.

Yes. Activate Zenbox 60–120 minutes before bedtime to block social media and messaging apps. This makes it easier to wind down and improves the quality of your sleep.

You can use different modes: in work mode only the apps you need for work stay available, while in detox mode everything is blocked. Zenbox supports mindful use – not total abstinence.

About 5 minutes. The app includes a detailed step-by-step guide. It's quick and easy.

Wherever you like – the Zenbox is magnetic. You can simply attach it to your fridge, for example. The further away from the sofa, the better the effect.

Yes! In the app's settings you can choose to start a Zenbox session without physically scanning – directly with a tap in the app. This way you can lock yourself even on the go or at the office without having the Zenbox at hand. Important: unlocking still requires the physical Zenbox or an emergency unlock.

Yes. On Android, NFC must be enabled in your settings. The Zenbox app is available for Google Pixel and Samsung smartphones; other manufacturers are currently being tested. On iPhones, NFC is active by default – you don't need to set anything up.

Depending on the model, the NFC sensor is in different places:

• iPhone: usually in the upper area on the back
• Android: often in the center or top (including Pixel and Samsung; other manufacturers are being tested)

If it doesn't work right away: move your phone slowly over the Zenbox and hold it there for 2–3 seconds.

Yes! You can already install the app, set up your profile and prepare your blocking rules. Important: without the physical Zenbox you cannot unlock blocked apps again. So only start blocking once the device is with you.

Possible causes:

• NFC is disabled (Android only)
• The phone case is blocking the NFC signal
• Incorrect holding position on the device
• The screen is locked
• Android: device not currently supported by us (officially including Google Pixel and Samsung; other manufacturers are being tested)

Solution: remove the case, unlock the device, move your phone slowly over the Zenbox and hold it there for 2–3 seconds.

Please check the following:

• Are the apps really listed in the block list?
• Is focus mode active?
• Have all necessary system permissions been granted?

Restarting the Zenbox app can help. If the problem persists, unlock all apps and set up blocking again.

This is because you've activated Strict Mode in the Zenbox app. It deliberately prevents deleting apps and changing settings, to rule out attempts to bypass it. End the active session to lift the restriction.

If apps aren't being blocked correctly, try the following:

1. Unlock all apps and block them again.
2. Disable and re-enable a schedule.
3. Restart your phone.

If the problem persists, contact us via the support form.

Some apps from the same provider can be blocked along with one another. This is a known limitation of Apple's:

• facebook.com can also block WhatsApp or Messenger
• amazon.com can also block Audible

Possible solution: Go to iOS Settings > Screen Time > Always Allowed and add the app you want to the list. If that doesn't help, remove the affected app or website from the block list.

Zenbox uses Apple's app picker, which can crash when very many apps are installed. As a workaround:

1. Write the app name in the Notes app.
2. Copy the name from Notes.
3. Paste it into the search bar of the app picker screen.

This is a known issue, for which Zenbox has developed a special workaround. Setup takes about 5 minutes:

1. Install the Shortcuts app (if you don't already have it).
2. Zenbox app → Settings → Advanced blocking features → Lock system settings.
3. Tap „Open shortcut“.
4. The „Zenbox System Settings“ shortcut opens – select „Add shortcut“.
5. In the Shortcuts app, tap Automation at the bottom, then + and select „App“ → „Settings“.
6. Select „Is Opened“.
7. Enable „Run Immediately“.
8. Select the „Zenbox System Settings“ shortcut.
9. Save – done!

Important: Also add the Shortcuts app itself to the block list of the active mode.

When a Zenbox session is active and someone tries to open the system settings, they are automatically redirected back to the Zenbox app.

Alternatively: Set up a separate Screen Time passcode in Apple's Screen Time menu. This runs independently of the Zenbox PIN and prevents changes to the Screen Time settings.

The workaround isn't perfect, but it's the best possible within Apple's limitations.

Video tutorial: YouTube Shorts

That's what the emergency unlock in the app is for. You have 3 emergency unlocks per month, which let you unlock apps without a physical Zenbox scan. The allowance renews automatically every month.

Important: Zenbox has uninstall protection that prevents the app from simply being deleted. Here's how to proceed:

1. Remove the uninstall protection in the Zenbox app – this is only possible with the physical Zenbox (scan required).
2. Afterwards you can delete the app from your smartphone as usual.

Uninstall the app and reinstall it – this resets everything to its initial state. Remember to remove the uninstall protection with the physical Zenbox beforehand.

No. You keep all your statistics and settings if you've synced your iPhone via iCloud.

Yes, fully. Since Zenbox collects or transmits no data whatsoever, there's also nothing to regulate – all data stays solely on your device. No cloud, no servers, no tracking.

The emergency unlock lifts locks without a Zenbox scan – for genuine emergencies, e.g. when the Zenbox is away or you urgently need to unlock.

• You have a maximum of 3 emergency unlocks per month; each use counts and is tracked.
• When the allowance is used up, 3 usable unlocks become available again from the 1st of the following month.

You need the physical Zenbox for normal unlocking; the emergency unlock is the way out when scanning isn't possible right now – use it sparingly and mindfully.

Zenbox processes all data locally on your device. Screen time, steps, mood, sessions – none of it leaves your iPhone. There are no servers, no accounts, no cloud sync.

No. Zenbox uses no analytics SDKs, no ad networks and no external services that track your behavior.

Only if you create a location rule. The app then asks for permanent location access so it can detect, even in the background, whether you're at a particular place. Without location rules, the permission isn't needed.

Only for step rules. The app reads exclusively your daily step count – no other health data.

Zenbox and the iOS Focus mode work independently of each other. You can use both at the same time – Zenbox blocks at the app level via Screen Time, while iOS Focus hides notifications.

No – no account is required for the core function. No login, no registration.

The Zenbox costs €49.99 EUR incl. tax. There are no subscription fees – you can use the Zenbox free of charge for life.

The Zenbox is available in white and black.

You can pay with PayPal or credit card.

Yes. Delivery is free via DHL, including a tracking number.

Shipping: Orders usually go out the next business day. During high order volumes it may take a little longer (small team – thanks for your understanding!).

Status & „Where is my package?“: Our chatbot shows you the status – enter your order number and email in the chat. You'll receive a DHL tracking number.

Delivery time: Within Germany usually about 3 days. To many other countries usually under 14 days (depends on region and customs).

Yes, Zenbox is shipped within Europe. Depending on the country (e.g. outside the EU), import or customs fees may apply.

In the order confirmation with the subject “Order confirmed” you’ll find a link. There you can conveniently download your invoice.

Satisfaction guarantee: If you’re not happy within 30 days, we’ll gladly help you with the setup. If it still isn’t the right fit, you’ll receive a full refund.

Return period: You can return the item within 30 days of receipt. The refund is issued without delay, at the latest within 14 days of receiving your return notification.

How to start your return: Returns within 30 days of receipt. You cover the return shipping costs.

1. Open the profile icon in the shop menu → customer account
2. Enter your email → 6-digit code (sign in without a password)
3. Select your order → “Request return”
4. Choose the item, reason and an optional note → confirm

No account? Write to support@thezenbox.de – we’ll send you a return label.

Return address (if you ship it yourself):
Konstantin Singer
Brucknerstraße 40
70195 Stuttgart

Please contact our support team with your order number and a photo of the defect – we’ll take care of a replacement or a solution quickly.

Yes, of course – simply write to konstantin@thezenbox.de. For larger quantities (50 units or more), please reach out there as well.

Yes, simply enter your preferred delivery address at checkout.