Semo FAQ
Plain answers about Semo, an iPhone app that asks a short AI question before you open an app you want to use less.
What do people most want to know about it?
Semo is a calm AI check-in for iPhone, not a lock. Most questions are about whether it blocks apps (it does not), what it costs ($59.99 a year or $9.99 a month, planned) and what happens to what you type. Whether it suits you depends on whether a reminder is enough. The answers below are dated 19 October 2026.
Questions and answers (as of 19 October 2026)
What is Semo?
Semo is an iPhone app that asks you a short question, in a calm AI chat, when you open an app you have chosen to use less. It is for adults who want to cut down on scrolling and want to be reminded of their own reasons. After the chat you get a timed pass or a nudge to do something else.
Is Semo an app blocker?
No. Semo is a self-help nudge, not a lock. You can always dismiss it and open the app anyway. If you need a block you cannot get around, use a strict mode in a dedicated blocker or Apple's own Screen Time with a passcode someone else holds.
How does Semo know when I open an app?
iOS does not tell apps when you open another app, so Semo uses a Shortcuts automation that you set up once per guarded app. It takes about a minute each. The steps are on the support page.
How much does Semo cost?
Planned launch prices, as of 19 October 2026: $59.99 per year with a 7-day free trial for eligible new subscribers, or $9.99 per month with no trial. Payment is handled by Apple and prices may differ by country. These are planned prices and may change before launch.
Is there a free trial?
Yes, on the annual plan only: 7 days free for eligible new subscribers. The monthly plan has no trial. Cancel at least 24 hours before the trial ends in your iPhone Settings, under your name, then Subscriptions.
Can I download Semo now?
Not yet. As of 19 October 2026 Semo is not on the App Store yet (launching soon). This site will say so plainly until it is on sale, and we show no ratings, user numbers or reviews because none exist yet.
What happens to what I type in the chat?
What you type is sent to our server and on to an AI model provider so it can reply. The app asks before the first message is sent. We do not sell your data, show ads or track you across other apps. The privacy policy has the detail and is still a draft awaiting legal review.
Do I need an account to use Semo?
No email or password is needed. Your account is anonymous and tied to your device. You can export or erase your data from inside the app.
Is Semo medical advice or therapy?
No. Semo is a self-help tool for adults, not medical advice, therapy or treatment. If you are struggling, talk to a qualified professional.
Who is Semo not for?
It is not for you if you need a hard lock, if a parent or employer needs to set and enforce the rules, if you are under 18, or if you would rather not send chat text to an AI service. Apple's Screen Time or a strict blocker suit those cases better.
Is there a limit on how much I can use the AI?
There is a generous daily limit that normal use will not reach. It can be lower in busy periods or for automated use. If you ever hit it, Semo says so plainly, your block keeps working and you can take a short pass. It resets the next day.
Does Semo work on Android?
No. Semo is for iPhone only.
How do I cancel?
On your iPhone open Settings, tap your name, then Subscriptions, choose Semo and tap Cancel Subscription. Deleting the app does not cancel the subscription.
More help: support (setup steps, cancelling, restoring) and export or erase your data.