PauseBox

PauseBox

Pause digital distractions

29 ratings
17 reviews
Free

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • September 5, 2025
  • June 2, 2026

Features

PauseBox screenshot #1 for iPhone
PauseBox screenshot #2 for iPhone
PauseBox screenshot #3 for iPhone
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About

This app helps you block digital distractions by creating a physical barrier. Select apps to block, create custom groups with schedules, and then tap your phone on a physical device to initiate a focus session. It encourages intentional separation to break habit loops.

Select apps to block
Create custom Pause Groups
Schedule focus sessions
Use physical device for blocking
Remote blocking option
Intentional separation from phone
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What's New in PauseBox

3.1

June 2, 2026

Fixes a bug where some users updating from a previous version saw their selected apps remain blocked even after unpausing. This update resolves it automatically — no action needed on your part.

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User reviews

I love my PauseBox!

So far my PauseBox has been so helpful and my screen time has gone down! A few of my friends have the brick but I couldn’t justify spending 60 dollars on it and in my opinion PauseBox is just as good if not better! The only suggestion I have is for live activities so I can see how long my phone has been paused for without opening the app!
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Alternative to Brick

App has been very bugged out the last week and does not function at all how it used to.

The Best

I spent weeks researching all the different options for app blockers and decided to go with PauseBox. I am SO happy with this choice! The app is straightforward and easy-to-use. I had a weird glitch yesterday and within 15 minutes of reporting it (and including my phone number), the app developer had texted me and helped me troubleshoot until the problem was resolved. You can’t ask for better service than that!

Blocking apps has done wonders for my mental health/anxiety levels and for my productivity. I don’t doom scroll as much, but I still have access to have conversations with people via text and call (you know… the thing your phone is supposed to actually be for), which I didn’t have when I was trying to just leave my phone in another room so I’d look at it less.

PauseBox also easily the most affordable option on the market. It’s rare that you get the holy Trinity of great product + great customer experience + affordability, but this is it!
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Amazing

This device has genuinely changed my life lol I wanted to get it for so long but competitors were so high in price until I found this. Thanks for making an affordable amazing product!

Perfect competition

Thank you so much for not charging a ridiculous amount. Please don’t ever turn this into a subscription based model like Opal. This is exceptional value.

FAQ

How does PauseBox work with a physical device?

PauseBox combines an app with a physical device. You select apps to block within the app, then tap your phone on the physical PauseBox to activate the blocking and start your focus session. This physical interaction creates a deliberate step to engage with your focus time.

Can I block apps without using the physical PauseBox?

Yes, PauseBox offers a 'Pause without tap' feature within the app. This allows you to initiate a focus session and block selected apps remotely if you are not near your physical PauseBox device.

What kind of app groups can I create with PauseBox?

You can create custom Pause Groups tailored to your needs, such as 'Work', 'Study', or 'Family Time'. Each group can have its own specific app rules, schedules, or timers to manage distractions effectively during different activities.

Is PauseBox available on Android devices?

Based on the current information, PauseBox is supported on iPhone devices. Further details on Android compatibility may be available from the developer.

How often is PauseBox updated?

The latest version of PauseBox is 2.2, and it was last updated on February 25, 2026. This indicates a recent update, suggesting ongoing development and support.

What is the age rating for PauseBox?

PauseBox has an age rating of 4+. This means it is considered appropriate for children aged 4 and older, with no significant mature content.

What do users like about PauseBox?

Users appreciate the unique physical barrier approach to digital distractions, which helps in breaking habit loops. The ability to create custom groups and schedule focus sessions also contributes to its positive reception.

Does PauseBox offer different subscription tiers?

PauseBox is currently available for free and does not mention any in-app purchases or subscription models. Users can access its features without any cost.