Setting up the Bilby
Set aside some time to go through and learn what’s possible on the Bilby – also consider talking it through with your child as you block certain apps, explaining why.
Google Account & the Play Store
Android is the Bilby’s operating system, which is Google’s mobile platform that is on most of the phones in the world. You’ll need a google account to download apps through the Google Play Store.
Although the Bilby comes with popular streaming apps already downloaded, you can open the Play Store to download your preferred app. It’s also where we download any app blocker – we recommend AppBlock as it’s free and simple, but you can choose any that you’re comfortable with.
If you don’t have a Google Account, you can find more information about creating an account here: How To Create a Google Account
Install AppBlock
- Download AppBlock from Google Play.
- Open the app.
- Complete the initial onboarding process.
Grant AppBlock Permissions
For AppBlock to block apps and websites reliably on Android, you’ll need to allow several permissions. The app will guide you through each one:
- Usage access — so AppBlock can detect which apps you’re using.
- Display over other apps — so the block screen can appear on top.
- Accessibility (optional but recommended) — needed for website blocking in browsers and Strict Mode.
- Location (optional) — only if you want to use location or Wi-Fi schedules.
- Battery optimization — turn it off for AppBlock so it can run reliably in the background.
- Autostart (some devices) — so AppBlock starts automatically after a reboot.
Important: Without these permissions, blocking may be unreliable. The most important ones for most users are Display over other apps, Usage access, Accessibility, and Battery optimization.
Create a Block
- Open AppBlock.
- Go to Blocking → Quick Block.
- Add the apps, websites, or keywords you want to block.
- Tap Start.
Enable Strict Mode
Strict Mode adds extra protection by preventing easy changes to your blocks.
- Go to Strict Mode.
- Choose an Access method (PIN, Charger, Timer, Cooldown, Follow schedules, or Approval).
- Pick which Options to lock down (Lock blockings in app, Disable AppBlock uninstalling, Block device settings, etc.).
- Confirm by tapping Continue.
- Review all your conditions and make sure your SM is set up correctly before activating.
- Tap Activate lock.
Test it, then hand it over 😀
- Try to open a blocked app.
- Confirm that the block activates correctly.
- If something’s off, head to Profile → Help → Troubleshooting.
- Hand the Bilby to your child for them to enjoy!
A note on limits: AppBlock is made by someone else, not by us, and it isn’t bulletproof. It’s brilliant for younger kids. An older, determined kid can work around any app-level lock — that’s true of every Android device on the market, ours included. Set it up with your child, talk about the rules, and you’ll be fine.