What Forest App is
Forest is a popular focus app available on iOS, Android and as a browser extension. The idea is simple: you start a session, a virtual tree begins growing on screen, and if you leave the app during that session, the tree withers. Over time you build a digital forest, and some versions of Forest tie this to planting real trees through a partner organization.
It's a gamification approach: instead of a block, you get a visual reward and a light sense of guilt meant to keep you from reaching for your phone.
Tasker vs Forest App
| Tasker | Forest App | |
|---|---|---|
| How it holds you back | System-level app block (Apple Screen Time / Family Controls) | A virtual tree that withers if you leave the app |
| Platforms | iOS and iPadOS | iOS, Android, browser extension |
| Motivation | An actual block instead of a reminder | Gamification, a digital forest, an option to plant real trees |
| Task tracking | A task list with sessions tied to specific work | A history of focus sessions, without a full task tracker |
| Pricing model | Free | One-time purchase (in most versions) |
When Forest might be the better choice
If you also work on Android or in a browser and need one tool across every platform, Forest covers that and Tasker doesn't, it's iOS only. If gamification and a visual reward motivate you more than a hard block, a growing forest might be exactly what keeps your phone out of reach. The option to plant real trees is also something Tasker doesn't offer.
When Tasker fits better
If you open the controlled app anyway despite good intentions, meaning a withering tree isn't enough resistance, you need an actual block, not a visual effect. Tasker uses Apple Screen Time (Family Controls), so chosen apps are unavailable for the whole session regardless of whether you keep your own promise.
That's the core difference: Forest relies on your self-discipline supported by gamification, Tasker relies on a mechanism you don't have to police yourself.
Try the approach with a real block
Tasker pairs a Pomodoro timer with blocking chosen apps for the length of a session, through Apple's Screen Time system.
Scan with your iPhone to install Tasker
View on the App StoreFrequently asked questions
Can I bring my data over from Forest to Tasker?
No, these are separate apps from different developers with no shared data format. You start your session history in Tasker from scratch.
Does Tasker plant real trees like Forest?
No. Tasker focuses on blocking apps and tracking sessions, without a tree-planting program.
Does Tasker work on Android?
No, Tasker is available on iOS and iPadOS only.