Show HN: Create a Dumbphone on Android

Beeswax blocks web browsers, newly installed apps and any app you pick until you enter your lock code. Give the code to someone you trust, or put it somewhere inconvenient.

bzz

bzzz

bzz

Screenshots

1Pick what to block

bzzz

Features

Block any app

Pick any app, like Instagram or YouTube, and it disappears from your phone.

Block any browser, even the built-in one that can't be uninstalled.

Every app you install after locking is blocked to prevent bypassing.

The only ways around Beeswax's restrictions are entering the lock code or a factory reset.

Beeswax collects and shares no personal data.

reproducible builds

bz

Privacy and security

bz

Setup

You'll need a computer with ADB, USB debugging enabled, and no accounts or users on the phone while you set the device owner. You can add accounts back afterwards.

Install Beeswax and make it device owner with one ADB command.

Lock Beeswax and keep the lock code somewhere you can't easily reach.

Use the code whenever you want to change which apps are blocked.

bzzzz

FAQ

Does Beeswax work on my phone? Beeswax has been tested on stock Pixels, GrapheneOS, and HyperOS.

You need a computer with ADB once, during setup. Android only lets Beeswax manage a phone with no accounts, no other user profiles and no Private Spaces, so you'll remove those first. A factory reset always works if that's easier.

Without your lock code, you can't access new apps you install and can't access apps you've blocked. You can still export all your data and access the apps you already have. If you need to install new apps or unblock apps, you'll need to factory reset your phone.

Enter your lock code, tap Unlock, then tap Deactivate and confirm. See the setup guide for more info.

You should use Apple Configurator (guide1 / guide2) to manage your devices, remove the browser and prevent new app installs. A macOS device and a factory reset of your iPhone/iPad are required for the initial setup. A new app that claims to allow this setup without a factory reset has been released but I have not looked into it.

Verify your download with an app verifier: