A lightweight privacy lock, not a security suite.
AppLockr is built for a specific problem: stopping casual access to selected apps and folders on a Mac you already use. It is not trying to replace every macOS security feature.
Compared with Screen Time
Screen Time is useful for app limits, downtime, categories, and parental-control workflows. AppLockr is more direct when you want selected apps or folders to ask for authentication before opening.
Compared with separate macOS accounts
Separate accounts are stronger for true multi-user separation, but they can feel heavy when someone only needs to borrow your Mac briefly. AppLockr is for the smaller everyday moment: “you can use my Mac, but not these private apps.”
Compared with folder-only encryption
Folder encryption helps protect files. AppLockr covers both private folders and apps that expose private information, such as Notes, Mail, Photos, browsers, chat apps, or work tools.
Compared with heavier app lockers
AppLockr aims to feel like a small Mac utility: native Swift/SwiftUI, Apple notarized, local-first, no telemetry, no ads, and a one-time purchase after the trial.
Choose AppLockr if
- You want to lock private apps with Touch ID or password authentication.
- You share your Mac casually and do not want to create extra macOS accounts.
- You care about local-first behavior, no tracking, and no ads.
- You want a small utility for personal privacy, not enterprise device security.