Pagelock: Read Before Scroll

Pagelock: Read Before Scroll

Quit scrolling by reading

4 ratings
2 reviews
Free
In-App Purchases

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • April 7, 2026
  • June 26, 2026

Features

Pagelock: Read Before Scroll screenshot #1 for iPhone
Pagelock: Read Before Scroll screenshot #2 for iPhone
Pagelock: Read Before Scroll screenshot #3 for iPhone
Pagelock: Read Before Scroll screenshot #4 for iPhone
Pagelock: Read Before Scroll screenshot #5 for iPhone
Pagelock: Read Before Scroll screenshot #6 for iPhone
Pagelock: Read Before Scroll screenshot #7 for iPhone
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About

This app helps you build a reading habit by replacing mindless scrolling with engaging with a physical book. It requires you to read and answer a question about a scanned book page before you can access distracting apps, promoting focus and reducing screen time.

Block distracting apps until reading
Unlock phone through reading
Scan printed book pages
Complete reading checks
Timed reading sessions
Set daily reading goals
Track reading progress
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What's New in Pagelock

1.4.2

June 26, 2026

Thanks for using Pagelock! This update improves the reading unlock flow, makes app blocking more reliable, and fixes a few more bugs. Clean, simple, done.

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Subscription plans

PageLock Pro Weekly

Weekly access to PageLock Pro

$9.997 Days
How to cancel Pagelock subscription ⁉️

User reviews

Cool idea but the app does not function. It says the words don’t match and they do after 5+ times

As stated I like the idea but it’s not working properly after repeated attempts and others verifying this is not user error.

Response from developer

hey, really sorry about the scan matching issues you ran into. we pushed an update (v1.3) that fixes this - the matching is way more reliable now. would love for you to give it another try. thanks for flagging it, your feedback helped us find the bug :)

Cool idea but

Subscription is too expensive to justify itself. There are other screen blocking apps that are free like screen zen, the only thing that sets this app apart is the reading gimmick

Response from developer

appreciate the honest feedback. other screen blockers just block your apps, but they don't replace the habit with anything. you end up staring at a lock screen and then going right back to scrolling. pagelock actually makes you read a real book to unlock, so you're building a new habit instead of just fighting the old one. on pricing, it comes out to about $0.70/week, which is less than a coffee. if that saves you even 30 minutes of doom scrolling a day, we think it's worth it. but we hear you and we're always looking at ways to make it more accessible :)

Developer apps

FAQ

What is Pagelock?

Pagelock is a productivity tool designed to help users build a reading habit and reduce mindless scrolling. It prompts users to read a physical book page and answer a question before allowing access to distracting applications.

How does Pagelock work?

When you attempt to open a distracting app, Pagelock intervenes by asking you to scan a page from a printed book using your camera. After scanning, you answer a quick question about the content. Successfully completing this verification allows you to proceed to your chosen app.

Does Pagelock have ads?

No, Pagelock does not contain advertisements. The app operates on a subscription model, with all features requiring a paid subscription.

What are the subscription options for Pagelock?

Pagelock offers several subscription plans, including a weekly plan for $9.99, an annual plan for $9.99, and a yearly plan for $39.99. The $39.99 yearly plan includes a 7-day free trial.

What devices does Pagelock support?

Pagelock is currently supported on iPhones. The app was last updated on June 26, 2026, with version 1.4.2.

What is the age rating for Pagelock?

Pagelock has an age rating of 4+, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The app focuses on promoting healthy digital habits.

Can Pagelock help me reduce screen time?

Yes, Pagelock is designed to help reduce screen time by creating a deliberate pause before accessing distracting apps. By requiring reading and verification, it encourages more mindful phone usage and helps build a reading habit.

How often is Pagelock updated?

Pagelock was last updated on June 26, 2026, indicating a commitment to ongoing development and improvements. The current version is 1.4.2.