tempo is an Android launcher designed to help you reduce screen time and maintain focus. It organizes your phone into a minimalist interface that hides distracting apps. The software includes a robust app blocker that prevents you from accessing specific tools for up to ten days. This lock remains active even if you delete the app. Use this tool if you want to limit your phone usage or convert your device into a device designed for productivity.
The application is distributed through a release page. Since this is an Android application, you download the installer file to your computer first, then transfer it to your phone.
- Visit the official releases page.
- Look for the section labeled "Assets" at the bottom of the latest release.
- Click the link ending in .apk to start the download.
- Save the file to your "Downloads" folder.
You must move the downloaded file from your computer to your Android device to install it.
- Connect your Android phone to your computer using a USB cable.
- Select "File Transfer" or "MTP" mode on your phone screen when prompted.
- Open your computer file explorer and locate your phone storage.
- Copy the .apk file from your computer "Downloads" folder to a folder on your phone, such as "Documents" or "Downloads".
- Disconnect the USB cable.
Android devices block the installation of apps from sources other than the official Play Store by default. You must adjust your security settings to proceed.
- Open the "Settings" app on your Android phone.
- Search for "Install unknown apps" or "Special access" in the settings search bar.
- Select your file manager app from the list.
- Enable the option "Allow from this source."
- Open your file manager app on your phone.
- Navigate to the folder where you placed the .apk file.
- Tap the file to begin the installation.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process.
tempo replaces your standard home screen. It uses a text-based design to reduce visual clutter.
- Swipe up to view your list of apps.
- Long-press on an app icon to access configuration options.
- Use the settings menu to select which apps appear on your home screen.
- Apps not selected for the home screen remain hidden during normal use.
The app blocker acts as a safeguard against impulse usage. When you choose to lock an app, the restriction lasts for ten days.
- Open the app settings.
- Select "Blocker" from the list.
- Choose the apps you wish to restrict.
- Confirm the lock duration of ten days.
- Once confirmed, you cannot bypass this restriction. The system prevents access even if you attempt to reinstall the launcher or clear the app data.
- Android 8.0 or newer.
- At least 100 MB of available storage.
- Compatible with most modern Android smartphones.
- No specific processor requirements are necessary.
Does this app track my data? No. The application runs locally on your device. It does not send your usage patterns or app history to external servers.
Can I stop the lock early? The design philosophy behind tempo prioritizes self-control. There is no mechanism to override the ten-day lock period. This ensures you stick to the boundaries you set.
Will this slow down my phone? The app uses Jetpack Compose, an efficient toolkit for building user interfaces. It consumes minimal battery and system memory. You should not experience any performance degradation on modern devices.
What happens if I forget how to use the app? The interface is designed for simplicity. If you require assistance, check the settings menu for a link to the project documentation.
Does this work on tablets? Yes, the layout adjusts automatically to larger screens, providing a clean and simplified experience on tablets as well as phones.
Digital wellbeing is a core focus of this project. By creating a text-only interface, the app reduces the dopamine feedback loop frequently associated with colorful app icons. The goal is to provide a tool for users who seek a "dumbphone" experience without purchasing new hardware. The project follows open-source principles to remain transparent and secure. You retain full control over your device at all times.