SonaLock

Support

SonaLock locks your chosen distracting apps until you speak Japanese out loud for a short daily session. Here is how to get going, and answers to the questions we hear most.

Getting started

  1. Open SonaLock and grant Screen Time access when asked. This is what lets the app lock your chosen apps.
  2. Pick the apps you want locked (the ones that distract you most).
  3. Set your daily speaking goal and unlock window.
  4. Tap Start Speaking Session and speak out loud. The timer only counts while you are actually talking.
  5. Finish the session and your chosen apps open for the rest of your unlock window.

Common questions

I need my apps right now. Am I locked out?

Never truly. SonaLock always fails open. There is an Emergency Release button on the main screen, every lock has a hard time limit, and turning off Screen Time access for SonaLock in the Settings app clears every lock instantly.

Does SonaLock record me?

No. The microphone runs only during a session and only to detect that speech is happening, on your device. Nothing is recorded, saved, or uploaded. It confirms that you spoke, not what you said. See our Privacy Policy.

Do I need to already know Japanese?

No. SonaLock includes a built-in set of survival phrases shown in romaji with plain English, so a complete beginner can start straight away. You can also bring your own material and read that instead.

Is it a subscription?

No. SonaLock is a one-time purchase. Pay once and it is yours for good. There is no subscription and no ads.

How do I restore my purchase on a new device?

Open SonaLock, go to the unlock screen, and tap Restore Purchases. As long as you are signed in with the same Apple ID that bought the unlock, it will restore at no extra cost.

The timer is not counting while I speak.

Make sure you granted microphone access (Settings, then SonaLock) and that you are speaking clearly and continuously. The timer pauses briefly when it stops hearing speech and resumes when you carry on.

Which languages are available?

SonaLock currently ships for Japanese. More languages are planned as separate apps.

Still need help?

Email matthewedwards27888@gmail.com and we will get back to you.

SonaLock is developed by Matthew Edwards, Australia.