Stop using Brain-Rotting Apps ! Switch to these !

We all have moments when boredom strikes, and our smartphones become a default escape. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, why not use that time to engage your mind? Here’s a list of apps that will stimulate your cognitive abilities and make your downtime more productive.

If you’re looking to break free from addictive apps, check out my other list, Detox from Phone Addiction and Doom Scrolling, for effective tools to help you reclaim your time. https://alternativeto.net/lists/40796/detox-from-phone-addiction/

Darlene Sonalder
Darlene SonalderList by Darlene Sonalder, last updated 
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  1. Boost Your Cognitive Functions and Memory

    Gamified brain training

  2. Lumosity icon

    Lumosity

     Like

    Enjoy a variety of daily mini-games designed to sharpen your mind. The free version has limitations, while the paid subscription offers more features.

    Worth mentioning : Elevate icon Elevate

    Cost / License

    • Freemium
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    • Apple Watch
    Home page
    iPhone (1)
    iPhone (2)
    +2
    iPhone (3)
  3. Cogniba icon

    Cogniba

     Like

    An innovative open-source WebApp SaaS that enhances cognitive functions and memory.

    Cost / License

    • Freemium
    • Open Source

    Platforms

    • Online
    • Software as a Service (SaaS)
    Cogniba screenshot 1
    Cogniba screenshot 1
    Cogniba screenshot 2
    +3
    Cogniba screenshot 3
  4. N-Back Challenge icon

    N-Back Challenge

     Like

    This popular brain training exercise can boost your IQ if practiced daily for a month.

    Cost / License

    • Freemium
    • Proprietary

    Platforms

    • Android
    • iPhone
    • iPad
    N-Back Challenge screenshot 1
    N-Back Challenge screenshot 2
    N-Back Challenge screenshot 3
  5. Brain N-Back icon

    Brain N-Back

     Like

    A completely free version available on Android, though it is no longer actively maintained.

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Proprietary

    Platforms

    • Android

  7. Reading: Feed Your Mind

    Reading can only benefit you

  8. WikiTok icon

    WikiTok

     Like

    Dive into a wealth of knowledge with this free encyclopedia.

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • iPhone
    WikiTok screenshot 1
    WikiTok screenshot 2
    WikiTok screenshot 3
  10. OpenLeaf icon

    OpenLeaf

     Like

    Access classic literature for free from the public domain.

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application type

    Platforms

    • iPhone
    • iPad
    OpenLeaf screenshot 1
    OpenLeaf screenshot 2
    OpenLeaf screenshot 3

  11. Writing: Unleash Your Creativity

    Creating stuff is important for human, why not writing a bit ?

  15. Notesnook icon

    Notesnook

     Like

    A modern, freemium FOSS note-taking app with end-to-end encryption.

    Worth mentioning : Joplin icon Joplin Standard Notes icon Standard Notes

    Cost / License

    • Freemium
    • Open Source

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Mac
    • Windows
    • Linux
    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    • Google Chrome
    • Flathub
    • F-Droid
    • Software as a Service (SaaS)
    • Flatpak
    Notesnook screenshot 1
    Notesnook screenshot 1
    Notesnook screenshot 2
    +6
    Notesnook screenshot 3

  16. Chess

    Chess is a classic game that sharpens your mind without the distractions of modern gaming.

    • No attention hooks
    • No microtransactions
    • Plenty of offline free options
  17. Learn Chess with Dr. Wolf icon

    Learn Chess with Dr. Wolf

     Like

    An excellent app for beginners to learn strategies and improve their game.

    Cost / License

    • Freemium
    • Proprietary

    Platforms

    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    Learn Chess with Dr. Wolf screenshot 1
    Learn Chess with Dr. Wolf screenshot 2
    Learn Chess with Dr. Wolf screenshot 3
  18. OffChess icon

    OffChess

     Like

    Challenge yourself with puzzles and exercises to enhance your skills.

    Cost / License

    • Freemium
    • Proprietary

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    OffChess screenshot 1
    OffChess screenshot 2
    OffChess screenshot 3
  19. Lichess icon

    Lichess

     Like

    Play against others online for free. Worth mentioning : Chess.com icon Chess.com

    Cost / License

    • Free
    • Open Source

    Application type

    Platforms

    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Android Tablet
    • iPad
    • F-Droid
    Home page, light background
    Game analysis, custom background
    Home page, dark background.
    +3
    2.5D board and pieces, custom background

  20. Meditation : Reclaim attention and mindfulness

  22. Calm icon

    Calm

     Like

    A freemium app that features guided meditation sessions, sleep stories, and relaxing music to promote mental well-being.

    Worth mentioning : Headspace icon Headspace Paid

    Cost / License

    • Freemium
    • Proprietary

    Application types

    Platforms

    • Online
    • Android
    • iPhone
    • Apple Watch
    • Android Wear
    Calm screenshot 1
    Calm screenshot 2
    Calm screenshot 3

  23. Language Learning

    Time well spent for sure !

In a world filled with distractions, it's essential to choose apps that enrich your mind rather than drain it.

By exploring options like Lumosity for brain training, WikTok for knowledge, and Notally for writing, you can transform your smartphone into a powerful tool for personal growth. Embrace the timeless challenge of chess to sharpen your strategic thinking. Make the switch today and turn your idle moments into opportunities for learning and creativity!

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