WritersLock: Journal & Block

WritersLock: Journal & Block

Beat screen time by writing

7 ratings
6 reviews
Free
In-App Purchases

Details

  • Released
  • Updated
  • June 30, 2026
  • August 7, 2026

Features

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WritersLock: Journal & Block screenshot #8 for iPhone
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About

This app helps you reduce screen time by requiring you to write a journal entry before unlocking distracting apps. It offers various writing modes and tracks your progress to build a consistent habit.

Blocks distracting apps
Requires daily writing entry
Multiple writing modes
Tracks streaks and progress
Vacation mode
Handwriting recognition
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What's New in WritersLock

1.0.24

August 7, 2026

Your Screen time card now shows a trend — minutes per day down (or up) vs last week. Scrub the new Insights chart for day-by-day details, with instant range switching. Vacation mode now pauses your streak too, voice memos explain recording errors, exports follow your history filter, and dark mode now kicks in correctly at launch. Thanks for writing with us!

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Subscription plans

WritersLock Pro — Yearly

Full access to WritersLock, billed yearly.

$29.991 Year
3 Days trial
How to cancel WritersLock subscription ⁉️
1

In-App Purchases

$79.99

WritersLock Pro — Lifetime

Full access to WritersLock, forever.

User reviews

a great use of time

I love this app! as someone who loves to jot down thoughts and ideas as they come, this is a great vehicle for that and such a good way to distract myself from scrolling unproductively. also love the prompts for a more guided experience.

I’d love to see how we can connect with friends on the app. For example, sharing entries, allowing feedback or matchmaking genres or writing styles? Not sure! Lots of possibilities!
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Terrific writing-specific app

I love this writing-specific app. It builds in focus time for me to write, which is essential as a distracted writer. It’s really easy to use. I like the variety of prompts it has, especially the free journal prompts and the dream diary. I also love that you can take a photo of your notebook.

I wish it would allow paste feature as sometimes I write in my notes app. I would also love the option to create your own category for writing since I’m working on 2 different writing projects, and I’d like to be able to choose from those to write in. The last thing I think would be very useful would be a way to link a Google or word doc for longer writing. A paste option would also work.

I love this app, and I’m so glad it exists.
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Response from developer

Hey! Thanks so much for using WritersLock and for the thoughtful feedback! I'm getting started working on custom writing categories now. Google doc link is a great idea -- will take me a bit longer to make happen but it's definitely in the pipeline. Thanks!

Do it!

Truly truly truly the app I never knew that I’ve always needed! Getting it done! Finally!

Writing freely at last

How can something so easy bring about so much of change? I became so more engaged, writing about moments and ideas that would otherwise be in limbo in my mind. It’s simple to use and I am in control.
Feeling self-affirmed!

I didn’t know I needed this app

Just in the last few days with this app, my days start with clarity. I know what I want and I know how I feel. It’s so good for me. It’s already changing me.

Response from developer

I'm so happy it's been helping! Thanks for the feedback.

FAQ

What is WritersLock?

WritersLock is a journaling app designed to help users reduce screen time. It blocks distracting applications until a daily writing entry is completed, encouraging a consistent writing habit.

How does WritersLock block apps?

WritersLock utilizes Apple Screen Time functionality to lock the apps you designate as distracting. These apps remain locked until you meet your daily writing goal.

What writing modes are available in WritersLock?

WritersLock offers four writing modes: Free Journal for open writing, Gratitude Log for quick entries, Dream Diary for capturing dreams, and Creative Prompt for daily inspiration.

Can I write by hand in WritersLock?

Yes, WritersLock supports handwriting recognition. You can write by hand, photograph the page, and the app will read it on-device to count as your entry.

Does WritersLock have ads?

No, WritersLock does not contain advertisements. The app is free to use with optional in-app purchases for premium features.

What are the subscription options for WritersLock Pro?

WritersLock Pro offers monthly subscriptions for $5.99 and yearly subscriptions for $29.99, which includes a 3-day free trial.

Is my writing private in WritersLock?

Yes, your writing is private by design. Entries never leave your device, and the app only collects anonymous metadata like word count and streak information.

How often is WritersLock updated?

WritersLock was last updated on July 16, 2026, with version 1.0.19. The app is generally updated regularly to improve features and reliability.