Sidelined is an iPhone app designed to help people stop sports betting by blocking sportsbook apps and websites on their device. Users can turn on a restriction themselves, but cannot remove it without approval from an accountability partner, such as a friend, sibling, parent, or partner. During setup, the partner is involved; if the user requests an unlock, the partner receives a link and can approve, encourage a shared pause, or ask them to wait.

The app uses Apple’s Screen Time controls to apply blocks at the system level and can cover multiple selected betting apps and sites. When a user tries to open a blocked service, Sidelined presents a calm pause screen with an option to message their partner, rather than warnings. It also offers progress streaks for days without an unlock. Partners do not see which games or sportsbooks the user visits, and they can respond through a browser without installing the app. Sidelined is coming soon to the App Store.