moss vs Refocus
A software blocker whose Strict Mode can use any NFC tag as the unlock.
Checked 11 November 2026 against Labi, LLC's own pages. We make moss, so we have linked every source below.
What Refocus is
Refocus is an iPhone app that blocks apps and websites by duration, schedule or limit. Its Strict Mode offers several ways to unblock: a passcode, an NFC tag, a wait timer, typing out a passage of text, or a limited number of timed unblocks a day. That makes it a software blocker that can borrow the physical-key idea with a tag you supply. There is a free version, and Refocus Pro is sold through in-app purchases.
What moss is
moss is an iPhone app that comes with a small physical stone. You choose the apps that distract you, tap your phone on the stone, and those apps stay locked until you tap the stone again. People who live together can link their phones to share schedules and put their phones down at the same time, while each person keeps control of their own phone. Locking is free in the app, the stone is a one-time purchase, and the household features are a paid add-on.
Side by side
| Feature | moss | Refocus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | US$49 stone, free app | Free version. Refocus Pro by in-app purchase |
| Subscription | None to lock your own phone. Household features are a paid add-on | Yes for Pro |
| Works on | iPhone only, iOS 17 or later | iPhone (iOS 16+) |
| How you lock | Tap the stone, or start from the app, a Shortcut, the lock screen or the Action Button. Schedules by day of week | Duration, schedule or limit in the app |
| How you unlock | Tap the stone, in the app | Passcode, NFC tag, wait timer or typing challenge |
| If you need back in | 3 emergency unlocks a month, refilled automatically | Depends on the unblock method you chose |
| Locking together as a household | Yes, as a paid add-on. Shared schedules, sessions others join in one tap, a view of whose phone is down, a streak. Nobody controls anyone else | None |
| Whose key opens your phone | Only your household's own stone, card and sprigs unlock your phones | Any NFC tag, if you choose that method |
Where Refocus is better
- A choice of unlock methods, including a tag you already own.
- Blocks websites.
- A free version to try.
Where moss is better
- A finished stone with nothing to source.
- Emergency unlocks every month.
- Households lock together.
Who should pick which
Pick Refocus if
You want to experiment with different kinds of friction on your own phone.
Pick moss if
You want a household to take part, or you would rather not set up your own tag.
Sources
Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we will fix it.
moss is a stone that locks the apps you choose.
Tap to lock, tap to unlock. One price, and locking needs no subscription.
