Pause: Doomscroll Blocker

Pause: Doomscroll Blocker

Cut Screen Time & Refocus

7 ratings
7 reviews
Free
In-App PurchasesWith Ads

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • June 29, 2026
  • September 1, 2026

Features

Pause: Doomscroll Blocker screenshot #1 for iPhone
Pause: Doomscroll Blocker screenshot #2 for iPhone
Pause: Doomscroll Blocker screenshot #3 for iPhone
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Pause: Doomscroll Blocker screenshot #5 for iPhone
Pause: Doomscroll Blocker screenshot #6 for iPhone
Pause: Doomscroll Blocker screenshot #7 for iPhone
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About

This app inserts a brief puzzle before you open selected apps, creating a moment of intentionality to reduce mindless scrolling. It offers various puzzles and a premium version for ad removal and full puzzle access.

Puzzle before app access
Reduces mindless scrolling
Nine calming puzzle types
Customizable app blocking
Intentional use timer
Premium ad-free option
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What's New in Pause

1.4.2

September 1, 2026

Fixed a bug where some of your paused apps could silently become unpaused at random after relaunching Pause. Your full paused-apps list is now preserved across every launch, so the apps you chose stay paused until you say otherwise

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Subscription plans

Pause Premium (Annual)

Puzzle selection enabled and no ads, billed yearly.

$74.991 Year
7 Days trial
How to cancel Pause subscription ⁉️

User reviews

It really works! Screen time down by 30%

HIGHLY RECOMMEND
I was hesitant to try it, but have been honestly surprised at how effective it has been at stopping doomscrolling. I’m not a huge fan of puzzles and for me that has become the barrier or boundary I needed go walk away, and with the recent customization features, like unpause timing, scheduling and reporting, I’m enjoying it even more!
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Pause has been a game changer for managing my screen time and social media habits. It creates just enough friction to make me stop and think before mindlessly opening an app, without feeling restrictive or annoying.

I’ve become much more intentional about when and why I use my phone, and I’ve definitely noticed myself spending less time endlessly scrolling. It’s simple, effective, and does exactly what it’s supposed to do.

If you’re trying to reduce screen time without completely giving up the apps you enjoy, I highly recommend Pause. One of those small apps that can genuinely make a big difference in your daily routine.
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Has really helped me stop using social media apps

I had been using a similar app for 2 years but I’ve really enjoyed using it the past month. Solving a puzzle helps me calm my hyper brain. Will continue using!!!

delivers what it promises

if I go a period without it, for whatever reason, I miss the puzzles, the cognitive stimulation and the barriers it places b/n my fingers’ impulses and the doomscrolling apps! 10/10 recommend

An awesome twist on Screen Control

Pause has genuinely changed how I use my phone. Instead of just blocking apps outright, it makes you play a quick game before you can get into Instagram or TikTok — and that tiny bit of friction is enough to make you stop and ask ‘do I actually want to scroll right now?’ Half the time I just close my phone instead of bothering with the game. It’s such a smart, creative twist on the usual screen-time tools that just nag you with reminders. Highly recommend if you’re trying to be more intentional with your phone time
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Developer apps

FAQ

How does Pause help reduce screen time?

Pause places a quick puzzle between you and the apps you've chosen to pause. Solving this puzzle creates a moment of friction, breaking the autopilot reflex and encouraging more intentional app usage.

What kind of puzzles does Pause offer?

Pause offers nine different calming puzzles, including Word Jumble, Mini Crossword, Sliding Tile, Ball Sort, Connect the Colors, Maze, and Sixdoku. These are designed to provide a small mental reset.

Is Pause a restrictive app?

No, Pause is designed for intention, not restriction. It aims to add a small space for choice rather than locking you out of apps completely, promoting guilt-free usage.

What are the benefits of Pause Premium?

Pause Premium unlocks all nine puzzles, removes advertisements, and offers a 7-day free trial before starting an annual or monthly subscription. This provides a more comprehensive and uninterrupted experience.

How much does Pause Premium cost?

Pause Premium offers two subscription plans: $9.99 per month or $74.99 per year. Both plans include a 7-day free trial for new subscribers.

Can I cancel my Pause Premium subscription?

Yes, you can manage or cancel your subscription anytime in your Apple Account settings. Subscriptions renew automatically unless canceled at least 24 hours before the end of the current period.

Does Pause have ads?

Yes, the free version of Pause contains advertisements. You can remove ads by subscribing to Pause Premium.

What devices is Pause available on?

Pause is available on iPhone and iPad, indicated by its compatibility with Apple's Screen Time technology.