Learn how to block apps on Google Chrome for more productivity and how the Speechify Chrome extension can also help.

How to block apps on Google Chrome

When working in the Google Chrome browser, there are several ways it can divert your attention. An increase in screen time can mean more temptation for diversion, and working from home can present even more of a challenge to your focus and productivity.

Fortunately, there are several chrome browser extensions you can install to block distractions. Keep reading to learn how to configure Chrome to block websites and apps.

Blocking through browser extensions

For a more productive and focused workday, you can block the websites that cause you the most distractions using browser extensions. These extensions also provide parental control if children use your device to prevent access to adult web content.

Blocking and unblocking websites on the Chrome browser on your desktop or mobile device is pretty straightforward, regardless of the operating system.

Block websites on Chrome desktop

Follow these steps for the quickest way to prevent access to websites in the Chrome browser on your computer:

1. Go to the Chrome web store and enter "Block Site" for the Chrome extension in the search bar.
2. Click on the "Add to Chrome" button at the top right corner of the screen.
3. A pop-up window will summarize the "Block Site" extensions' essential elements. If you're happy to install the extension in your browser, click the "Add extension" button.
4. Once the extension downloads, the "Block Site" icon will display along Chrome's top right. An orange shield and a circle in the center with a diagonal line confirms that "Block Site" has been successfully installed.
5. Go to a web page you wish to block, then click on the "Block Site" icon.

Click on "Block this site" in the pop-up.

From now on, you won't be able to reach the websites you choose to block. Here's how to unblock a blocked site:

1. Click on the "Block Site" icon.
2. Select "Edit block sites list."
3. To the right of each blocked site will display a "minus" icon.
4. Click on the "minus" icon to unblock specific sites.

Block websites in Chrome via Android

A Chrome browser extension can also offer the same functionality on your Android device. Like many extensions, the Block Site extension is available as an app to download on Android.

Here are the steps to block websites on your Android device:

1. Access the Google Play Store.
2. Enter "BlockSite" (one word) in the search.
3. Press the "Install" button.
4. Once installed, the orange icon will appear on your phone. Open it.
5. Tap on "Go to settings." BlockSite will redirect you to your phone's "Settings" to set permissions for the app to stop the websites you don’t want to access.
6. Find the "BlockSite" app in the settings lists, then select it.
7. The app will ask permission to "Enable" the app or "Use service." Either option will activate the app.
8. Now with the "BlockSite" activated, go to the app, then at the bottom right corner of your screen, press the green "+" sign. This will open a screen allowing you to block a website or mobile app.
9. Choose "Website" or "App," then enter the name into the search bar.
10. Tap the green check mark on the top-right of the screen to block the website or app.
11. Via the next screen that appears, you'll have the option to edit or delete apps and websites from your block list.

Block websites on iOS devices

Several apps can block websites on Apple products, including iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Visit the App Store for a wide selection of site-blocking apps, including these two popular options:

• Zero Willpower—This app allows you to block websites via Safari on your iPhone. You have the option to block a site for a limited time.
• Site Blocker—This app offers the same functionality as Zero Willpower for free.

Use administrator access to block apps

If you're a Chrome Enterprise administrator, you can manage the apps that users install on the ChromeOS devices or Chrome browsers you manage. Follow these steps to create policies for everyone or modify settings for different groups.

Note: To set Chrome policies for users on Mac, Linux, Chromebook, or Windows computers, enable "Chrome browser management" for the organizational unit where they reside.

1. Sign in to your Admin console Google account.
2. Click "Devices," then "Chrome" from the home page.
3. Choose "Apps & extensions," then "Users & browsers."
4. (Users only) For a group setting, do the following: click "Groups," then select the group to apply the setting.
5. For all users and registered browsers, ensure the top organizational unit is selected, or choose a child organizational unit.
6. Click on the "Additional settings" option.
7. Go to "Allow/block mode" and click "Edit.”
8. Select the type of extensions and apps to allow users to install from the Play Store.
9. Choose the extensions and apps the users can install from the Chrome Web Store.
10. Click "Save."

Enrich your Chrome with Speechify

In addition to using Chrome extensions to block website apps, Speechify can also enhance your focus and productivity. Make your Chrome browser more functional by adding the App Store's No.1 text to speech app.

Speechify uses AI to turn text into audio, including the Chrome extension, which reads the text within your browser. The desktop and mobile apps can read your emails in Gmail and all your Microsoft documents. Listening to information helps you absorb and interpret it more efficiently for increased productivity in the office.

Try Speechify for free by installing the Chrome extensions or using the app for focused reading.

FAQ

How do you block a Chrome app?

Chrome apps can be blocked using an admin Google account. Find the app beneath the “Installation policy,” select "Block," then "Save."

How do you uninstall an app on Google Chrome?

Here's how to delete an app in Chrome on your desktop:

1. Select the "Launcher," then right-click the app you want to uninstall.
2. Press "Uninstall."

How do I stop apps from working on Google Chrome?

You can delete the Google Chrome apps you no longer wish to use.