ActivityWatch

ActivityWatch is an open-source, privacy-focused automatic time tracker that monitors how you spend time on your devices. Unlike cloud-based alternatives, it keeps all data locally while providing comprehensive insights into your digital habits, application usage, and productivity patterns.

Key Features

• Automatic Activity Tracking:

  • Continuous monitoring of active applications
  • Website and browser activity tracking
  • Window title and document tracking
  • Keyboard and mouse activity detection
  • Idle time recognition and categorization
  • Cross-device activity correlation

• Privacy-First Design:

  • All data stored locally on your device
  • No cloud services or external servers
  • Complete data ownership and control
  • Privacy-focused architecture
  • Offline operation capability
  • Optional data sharing controls

• Comprehensive Analytics:

  • Interactive timeline visualization
  • Detailed activity reports and summaries
  • Productivity metrics and insights
  • Category-based time analysis
  • Historical data trends
  • Custom time period analysis

• Cross-Platform Support:

  • Native desktop applications for Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Android mobile application
  • Browser extensions for web tracking
  • Synchronized data across devices
  • Platform-specific optimizations
  • Consistent user experience

• Data Management:

  • Flexible data export options
  • Backup and restore functionality
  • Configurable data retention policies
  • Custom activity categorization
  • Rule-based automatic classification
  • Data filtering and processing

• Extensibility & Integration:

  • Modular watcher system
  • Plugin architecture for custom functionality
  • REST API for data access
  • Custom data processors
  • Third-party integration support
  • Developer-friendly architecture

• User Control:

  • Granular privacy controls
  • Selective tracking options
  • Custom blacklists and whitelists
  • Activity pause and resume
  • Data deletion controls
  • Transparency in data collection

Technical Specifications

• Language: Python
• Database: Local SQLite
• Frontend: Web-based dashboard
• API: REST API
• License: MPL-2.0
• Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android

Use Cases

• Personal Productivity: Understanding and optimizing personal work habits
• Time Awareness: Gaining insights into digital device usage patterns
• Habit Tracking: Monitoring and improving digital wellness
• Work Analysis: Analyzing work patterns and productivity trends
• Research: Academic research on digital behavior and productivity
• Self-Improvement: Data-driven approach to time management

Unique Advantages

• Privacy-Focused: Complete local data storage with no cloud dependency
• Automatic Tracking: Passive monitoring requiring no manual input
• Cross-Platform: Comprehensive coverage across desktop and mobile devices
• Open Source: Transparent, auditable, and customizable codebase
• No Subscription: Free forever with no usage limitations
• Extensible: Plugin system for custom functionality and integrations

Based on the ActivityWatch GitHub repository, this tool provides individuals with a powerful, privacy-respecting way to understand their digital habits and optimize their productivity without compromising data privacy or requiring ongoing subscriptions.