How We Review Apps & Products

Why we publish reviews and comparisons

Addiction Free Mind reviews apps, software, devices, and simple physical tools when they can reduce friction around a problem the site already covers. A product earns a place in the editorial plan because it may solve a reader problem, not merely because an affiliate program exists.

Three evidence levels

Hands-on evaluation means the product or service was actually used in a stated context. The article should describe the device, operating system, plan level, testing period, and the tasks that were tried when those details matter.

Documentation-based evaluation compares official feature lists, platform support, pricing, limits, privacy information, or support documentation. These articles must not use language that implies hands-on testing when none occurred.

Editorial comparison may combine documented facts with an analysis of which user profile each option appears best suited to. The distinction matters: a reasoned comparison is useful, but it is not the same as a laboratory test or long-term personal review.

What we compare

For app blockers and focus software we may compare supported platforms, scheduling options, strictness controls, bypass friction, free versus paid limitations, cross-device support, setup complexity, and whether built-in Apple, Android, browser, or operating-system tools can accomplish the same goal.

For physical tools such as phone lockboxes, timers, alarm clocks, planners, or e-ink devices, relevant criteria may include the actual problem the product solves, setup effort, durability information, return policy, ongoing subscription cost, and whether a cheaper non-product alternative exists.

Pricing and feature changes

Software pricing and features change. A review should state when information was checked when that context is important and should link to the official product or support page for details that users need to verify before purchasing. We do not guarantee that a price shown in an article will remain unchanged.

Affiliate relationships

Some links may be affiliate links. If a reader purchases through one of those links, Addiction Free Mind may receive a commission. A material relationship should be disclosed near the recommendation in clear language, not hidden only on a policy page. The presence or size of a commission does not determine the editorial conclusion.

Our disclosure approach follows the principle in the U.S. Federal Trade Commission’s Endorsement Guides that material relationships should be disclosed clearly and conspicuously. Readers can review the full Affiliate Disclosure.

What we will not do

We will not claim to have personally tested a product when we have not. We will not publish fabricated user testimonials. We will not suppress a meaningful limitation simply because a product has an affiliate program. We will not use a paid placement as though it were an independent editorial ranking without disclosure.

How readers can challenge a review

If a feature has changed, a price is outdated, a platform is no longer supported, or a test description appears inaccurate, use the Contact page. Include the article URL and, when possible, an official source showing the change. Substantive corrections are handled according to our Corrections Policy.