# ReadLock: App Blocker — Screen Time blocker for focus

> Read before scrolling: a forcing function app blocker for enhanced focus. (iPhone/iPad app by MATTHEW HENRY FOSTER.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/readlock-app-blocker/id6780989764 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [MATTHEW HENRY FOSTER](https://appshunter.io/developer/6780989766)
- Category: Productivity, Health & Fitness
- Price: Free with in-app purchases
- Rating: 5.00/5 from 2 App Store ratings
- Age rating: 12+
- Requires: iOS 17.0 · 27 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2026-06-24
- Data updated: 2026-07-03
- Monetization: free with in-app purchases
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/readlock-app-blocker/id6780989764/reviews.md

## What is ReadLock?

ReadLock makes you read before you scroll.

If app blockers are too easy to ignore, ReadLock gives your phone a real forcing function: your selected apps, categories, and websites stay blocked until you read one page.

Choose what you want to block, set your reading times, then let ReadLock hold the line. When it is time to read, ReadLock uses Apple's Screen Time and Family Controls system to shield your selected distractions. Finish one page in the built-in reader, and your apps unlock.

Why people use ReadLock:
- Earn access instead of relying on willpower
- Block chosen apps, app categories, and websites
- Schedule reading locks for morning, midday, or evening
- Lock apps manually when you need a reset
- Read bundled public-domain classics like Pride and Prejudice, Frankenstein, Crime and Punishment, and Sherlock Holmes
- Track local reading progress in a simple library
- Get optional reading reminders and unlock notifications

ReadLock is for the moment when you catch yourself opening the same app again and again, even though you meant to do literally anything else. Instead of another dismissible reminder, it turns one page of reading into the key that gets you back in.

Read first. Scroll later.

Notes:
- App blocking requires Screen Time permission and a selected app, category, or website.
- Blocking behavior can vary based on iOS, device settings, and the selections you choose.
- Full access requires an auto-renewing subscription. Trial, price, and renewal details are shown before purchase.
- Terms of Use (EULA): https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/itunes/dev/stdeula/

## Key features

- Earn app access through reading
- Block apps, categories, and websites
- Schedule reading locks
- Manual app locking
- Built-in reader with public-domain classics
- Track local reading progress

## Pricing and in-app purchases

Base price: Free.

**Subscriptions**

| Subscription | Price | Period |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Read Lock Pro Monthly | $9.99 | per month |
| Read Lock Pro Yearly | $39.99 | per year |



## Frequently asked questions about ReadLock

### What is ReadLock?

ReadLock is an app designed to help you focus by requiring you to read a page from a selected text before you can access blocked apps, categories, or websites. It acts as a forcing function to prevent mindless scrolling.

### How does ReadLock work?

ReadLock integrates with Apple's Screen Time and Family Controls system. You select what you want to block, and then ReadLock shields these distractions until you finish reading one page in its built-in reader.

### What kind of reading material is available in ReadLock?

ReadLock includes a selection of public-domain classics such as Pride and Prejudice, Frankenstein, Crime and Punishment, and Sherlock Holmes stories. You can also track your local reading progress within a simple library.

### What are the subscription options for ReadLock?

ReadLock offers a monthly subscription for $9.99 with a 7-day free trial, and a yearly subscription for $39.99 with a 7-day free trial. Full access to all features requires one of these auto-renewing subscriptions.

### Does ReadLock have ads?

No, ReadLock does not contain advertisements. The app is free to download and use, with full access to its features available through a subscription.

### What devices does ReadLock support?

ReadLock is currently supported on iPhones. The app requires Screen Time permission and specific device settings for its blocking functionality to work effectively.

### How often is ReadLock updated?

The latest version of ReadLock is 1.1, and it was last updated on June 29, 2026. Updates typically include improvements to blocking behavior and feature enhancements.

### What is the age rating for ReadLock?

ReadLock has an age rating of 12+. This rating is based on the content and functionality of the app, which is designed to help users manage their screen time and focus.

## Version history (last 2 releases)

### 1.1 — 2026-06-29

New in ReadLock 1.1:
- Added a short “Previously” recap before locked daily reading pages.
- Refined the reader so daily locked pages feel cleaner and less cluttered.
- Improved reading-check answer handling for a fairer unlock flow.

### 1.0 — 2026-06-24

No release notes.

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-07-03.*