Schedule a block during specific times
Sometimes you don’t want to block a website all the time, just during certain hours when you need to focus. That’s where Scheduled Blocks come in.
This feature lets you set up rules to block distracting websites at specific times of the day and on specific days of the week. It’s a simple way to carve out distraction-free time without needing to start a focus timer.
You can even create multiple schedules for different sites — for example, blocking social media every weekday morning, but leaving it open in the evenings.
How to use this feature:
- Click on Otto's popup
- Head over to the block icon
- Click the Scheduled Block tab, then click “Create and manage”
- You'll be taken to the Scheduled Block settings
- Click on Add+ to create a new rule
- Select YouTube from presets or manually add a URL youtube.com
- Edit the schedule to set time slots and days
- Click Save to activate your rule
Set a countdown time limit block
Sometimes a hard block feels too rigid — you just want some flexibility while still keeping yourself in check. That’s what the Autoblock (countdown block) is for.
With this feature, every time you visit a chosen site, a countdown timer starts. If you leave before the timer runs out, nothing happens. But if you stay past the limit, Otto will step in and block the site for you.
This is especially useful for “habit” sites you open without thinking, like social media or news feeds. It gives you a little leeway while still holding you accountable.
How to use this feature:
- Click on Otto’s popup
- Head over to the block icon
- Click the Autoblock tab, then click “Create and manage autoblocks”
- In the Autoblock settings page, click Create
- Enter youtube.com or select YouTube from the presets
- then set the duration
Focus session blocks
Focus Blocks are Otto’s default blocking mode. Unlike the other two features, these blocks only activate when you start a session (like a Pomodoro).
This is perfect if you don’t want to block sites all day, just while you’re actively working. Once your focus session ends, the blocks are lifted and you can browse freely again.
It’s a lightweight way to keep your mind from wandering while still keeping the rest of your day flexible.
How to use this feature:
- Click on Otto’s popup
- Head over to the block icon
- Click the Blocking tab
- In the popup, enter youtube.com or pick YouTube from a list by clicking the “+” icon