Google has announced the introduction of the Pause Point tool in the new version of Android 17. The feature aims to keep users from mindlessly opening addictive apps.
Google has announced the introduction of the Pause Point tool in the new version of Android 17. The feature aims to keep users from mindlessly opening addictive apps.
As TechCrunch reports, the introduction of Pause Point was Google’s response to global regulatory pressure. Today, numerous countries and US states have already passed laws restricting the use of social media by minors due to its destructive impact on mental health.
The mechanics of Pause Point are to interrupt the «dopamine loop» at the software launch stage. The user can independently mark «time killers» — for example, TikTok, Instagram, X (Twitter) or mobile games. When trying to open such an application, the system will lock the screen for 10 seconds. This time is enough for a person to realize whether he really wants to scroll through the feed or is doing it out of habit.
«Android is more powerful than ever, but we also want to give you the tools to take a break. We’re all guilty of picking up our phone, opening an app, and getting stuck on autopilot, only to find out an hour has passed,» explained Dieter Bohn, Director of Product Operations, Google Platforms & Ecosystems.
NEW VIDEO — When you go to doomscroll or open an addictive app, Android 17 has a new feature called «Pause point»
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) May 13, 2026
Full video: https://t.co/hSGev7qzYz pic.twitter.com/XcZPcofggD
Instead of waiting, the system will offer useful alternatives: breathing exercises, browsing a photo gallery, or switching to reading and fitness apps. In addition, Pause Point allows you to set a time limit for a specific session before the user starts consuming content.
An important technical feature is protection against quick shutdown of the function. Unlike standard digital timers, which are easy to ignore, to deactivate Pause Point you will need to completely reboot the smartphone. The developers believe that such a «barrier» will make the user think twice about changing the settings.
