gistfile1.txt

# DeepWatch

*For deep learning, not shallow scrolling.*

An Android app that creates intentional friction when accessing YouTube Shorts, helping you reclaim your attention.

## Installation

1. Download `app-debug.apk` to your Android device
2. Tap the APK to install
3. Open DeepWatch and grant permissions

## Troubleshooting

### "App blocked by Play Protect"

Google Play Protect may block installation of apps from outside the Play Store.

**To install anyway:**

1. Tap **"Got it"** on the warning dialog
2. Tap **"More details"**
3. Tap **"Install anyway"**

**If "Install anyway" doesn't appear:**

1. Open **Play Store** app
2. Tap your **Profile icon** (top right)
3. Tap **Play Protect**
4. Tap **Settings** (gear icon)
5. Toggle OFF **"Scan apps with Play Protect"**
6. Install the APK
7. Toggle Play Protect back ON after installation

---

### "Controlled by restricted settings"

Android 13+ blocks sensitive permissions for sideloaded apps until explicitly allowed.

**To allow restricted settings:**

1. **Long-press** the DeepWatch app icon
2. Tap **"App info"**
3. Tap the **three-dot menu (⋮)** in the top-right corner
4. Tap **"Allow restricted settings"**
5. Confirm with your PIN/fingerprint if prompted
6. Return to DeepWatch and enable permissions

**Alternative path:**

Settings → Apps → DeepWatch → ⋮ (top right) → Allow restricted settings

---

### Accessibility Service shows "Not working"

If the service crashes or stops:

1. Go to **Settings → Accessibility → DeepWatch**
2. Toggle it **OFF**, then **ON** again
3. If that fails, force stop the app and re-enable

---

## Setup Checklist

After installation, ensure both permissions are granted:

- [ ] **Accessibility Service** - Detects when you navigate to Shorts
- [ ] **Overlay Permission** - Shows the blocking overlay

Both are required for DeepWatch to function.

## How It Works

1. You open YouTube and tap on Shorts
2. DeepWatch detects this via Accessibility Service
3. A 10-second blocking overlay appears
4. You can tap "Go Back" immediately, or wait
5. After 10 seconds, you must tap to proceed (extra friction)
6. If you proceed, there's a 5-minute cooldown before next intervention

## Settings

- **Countdown Duration**: 5-30 seconds (default: 10)
- **Cooldown After Proceed**: 1-30 minutes (default: 5)

## Building from Source

```bash
# Requires Java 17 and Android SDK
./gradlew assembleDebug

# APK location
app/build/outputs/apk/debug/app-debug.apk
```

## License

MIT