Questions and answers.
Everything you want to know before and after ordering. Question missing? Email hello@backtoctrl.com, we answer personally.
How does the ctrl key work?
You choose in the app which apps belong to each mode. When you activate ctrl, Apple Screen Time technology blocks the selected apps directly on your iPhone. The ctrl key is a passive NFC chip: no battery, no Bluetooth and nothing to charge.
Does it work with my iPhone?
The ctrl key works with iPhone 11 or newer and iPhone SE 2nd generation or newer, running iOS 26. Android is planned.
Do I need a subscription?
No. The core app remains available without a subscription: modes, blocking, schedules, progress and the main protection features. Optional ctrl+ adds deeper insights and features such as Family.
What do the key and shipping cost?
The final price, available countries and shipping costs will be shown transparently on the Shopify pre-order page when ordering opens. Until then, no paid order is placed.
When does it ship?
First delivery is planned from October 1, 2026. We will confirm the binding date before paid pre-orders open.
Can I cancel or return it?
The binding cancellation and return terms will be shown before purchase in Shopify checkout. Your statutory rights remain unaffected. Contact us directly if you have a question.
What if I lose the key?
Timers and schedules end on their own. The app also includes deliberately limited emergency unlocks. You can then pair a replacement key.
Can several iPhones use the same key?
Yes. The passive NFC key is not permanently tied to one iPhone. Several iPhones with the ctrl app can pair and use the same key.
How does ctrl work for families?
A parent creates a child profile in ctrl and links it by code to the child’s iPhone. Apple Family Sharing and Family Controls authorization on the child’s iPhone are separate steps. The parent can then manage the child’s modes and schedules.
What happens with my data?
App selection and blocking use Apple Screen Time interfaces on the iPhone. Account, Connect and Family data is processed only for those features. Further details are available in our privacy policy.
What is special about the first edition?
The first run is planned for 500 keys. Each key is precision-milled from aluminum with a matte white ceramic top and receives its own number from 001 to 500.
Can I simply bypass the block?
ctrl is an honest hurdle, not a cage. Protection features make impulsive bypassing deliberately inconvenient while preserving a limited emergency path.
How do I reach you?
Email hello@backtoctrl.com. We answer personally.