✦ Help Center
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Block Cheddam. Can't find an answer? Contact us.
How does Block Cheddam block apps?
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Block Cheddam uses Android's UsageStatsManager to detect which app is in the foreground and shows a full-screen pet overlay using SYSTEM_ALERT_WINDOW. This is completely policy-compliant with Google Play — we never use AccessibilityService for blocking.
Does it work with Instagram, YouTube and other apps?
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Yes! Block Cheddam can block any app installed on your Android phone — Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Twitter/X, games, or any app you choose. You pick which ones to limit.
Does it work in the background when the phone is locked?
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Yes. Block Cheddam runs as a foreground service (you'll see a persistent notification) so the break timer keeps counting even when your screen is off. If you're on a Vivo, OnePlus, or Xiaomi device, you'll need to whitelist Block Cheddam in battery settings — we guide you through this during setup.
Is my usage data sent to any server?
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No. Your app usage stats, blocking rules, and break history are stored locally on your device only. They are never uploaded to any server. Only your pet progress and achievements are optionally synced to the cloud if you create an account.
Do I need to create an account?
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No. Core features (blocking, pet care, games, insights) work completely offline without an account. An account is optional — it lets you back up your pet progress and sync across reinstalls.
What are the 5 pets? Can I have more than one?
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The 5 pets are: Cat, Dog, Panda, Rabbit, and Fox. Each has a unique personality and reaction style. You start with one pet, and can unlock more as you build streaks and level up.
How does the pet grow and evolve?
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Your pet earns XP every time you complete a break, play a mini-game, or maintain a daily streak. At certain XP thresholds, your pet evolves — from Baby → Young → Teen → Adult → Evolved. Each stage has new animations and dialogue.
What mini-games are available during breaks?
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Block Cheddam includes 5 short mini-games (10–60 seconds): Memory Card Match, Quick Math, Pattern Recognition, Reaction Tap, and Pet Feeding Game. They're designed to engage your brain without pulling you back into scrolling.
Is Block Cheddam free? Will it always be free?
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Block Cheddam is completely free right now — no ads, no subscriptions, no hidden costs. In the future, we may introduce optional premium features (like rare pet skins or advanced analytics) but the core digital wellbeing features will always be free.
Does it support Telugu?
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Yes! Block Cheddam supports both English and Telugu. You can switch languages in Settings at any time. All pet dialogue, UI text, and health activity guides are available in both languages.
Why is Block Cheddam different from built-in screen time apps?
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Built-in apps just show a "Time Limit Reached" message. Block Cheddam turns that interruption into a warm, engaging experience with your pet companion — making the break feel rewarding rather than punishing. You actually look forward to your pet showing up.