Yes. On Android, Prayer Latch uses the Accessibility service to notice when an app you chose to lock has opened, so it can show a prayer screen over it, and it asks for your consent before you turn it on.
Android doesn't give apps a Screen Time permission like iPhone does. Apps that lock other apps, including parental controls and focus tools, use the Accessibility service instead.
What does Prayer Latch use Accessibility for?
One thing: noticing which app has just opened. If it's an app you chose to lock and it's during a lock time, Prayer Latch shows its prayer screen over it.
What doesn't it read?
Prayer Latch does not:
- read text on your screen
- read your messages or what you type
- see your passwords
- save or send the names of the apps you open
The check happens on your phone, and the name of the open app is never saved or sent anywhere.
Why does it also need "display over other apps"?
That permission lets the prayer screen appear on top of the app you tried to open. App locking needs both permissions. Prayer Latch explains both and asks for your agreement during setup, before taking you to Android Settings.
How do I turn it on?
Setup walks you through it in a few taps:
- Prayer Latch explains what the Accessibility service does and doesn't do. Tap Agree to continue, or skip it for now.
- Android Settings opens with Prayer Latch highlighted. Turn it on and confirm.
- Allow display over other apps when asked.
- You're brought back to Prayer Latch automatically.
If something is still off later, a card on the Home screen offers the same help again.
Is it safe to give an app Accessibility access?
It depends on the app, so it's worth being careful. Read the app's explanation and privacy policy, and check that it tells you plainly what it reads. Google Play also requires apps that use Accessibility this way to disclose it and ask for consent. Prayer Latch's full explanation is in its privacy policy.
Can I turn it off?
Yes, at any time in Settings → Accessibility. Prayer Latch never stops you from turning the service off, opening Settings or uninstalling the app. App locking just pauses while it's off.
Which Android devices does it support?
Android phones and tablets, with layouts for larger screens. If a permission is still off after setup, the app's setup help walks you through turning it on.
Will it drain my battery?
Prayer Latch only checks which app is in front when a new app opens. Your lock times are scheduled with Android's alarm system, so locking happens on time even when the app isn't open.
Pray before you scroll
Prayer Latch locks your chosen apps each morning until you pray. Your first 7 days are free, no card needed.
Updated October 20, 2026 by the Prayer Latch team at Janus Works LLC.