Need help? Email us directly
support@readtounlock.orgWe typically respond within 1–2 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I block apps?
Open Read to Unlock, go to the Blocked Apps section, and add the apps you want to block. On iPhone the app uses iOS Screen Time, so you will be asked to grant Family Controls permission the first time. On Android it uses an Accessibility service, which only reads the package name of the app in the foreground so it knows when to show the block screen.
How do I earn minutes?
Read inside the app: every page you read is worth 1 minute. There is no daily goal and no minimum — read as much or as little as you want, then take the quiz whenever you are ready.
What is the comprehension quiz?
When you finish reading, you answer 3 questions generated by AI from the pages you just read. Get at least 2 of 3 right and the pending minutes move into your balance. If you get fewer, those pending minutes are cleared and you need to read again before the next quiz.
When do my apps lock again?
Minutes sit in your balance until you activate them — nothing unlocks on its own. Once you activate minutes, the selected apps stay open until that timer runs out, then they lock again. Whatever you have not spent carries over to the next day.
How do I upgrade to Pro?
Tap the Pro badge or the upgrade prompt inside the app. Pro is $4.99 per month or $29.99 per year. It unlocks the full book library, EPUB and PDF imports, blocking for every app instead of one, and a single minute balance across all your reading.
Can I import my own books? (Pro)
Yes. Pro subscribers can import EPUB and PDF files — on iPhone from the Files app, iCloud Drive, or any compatible source; on Android from your device storage or Google Drive. Go to the Library tab and tap the import button.
Is there an Android version?
Yes, currently in closed testing on Google Play. You need to join the tester list before the store page will let you install it — open the Google Play listing, and if it is not available to you yet, email us and we will add your Google account.
The app isn't blocking — what do I do?
On iPhone, check that Screen Time is enabled (Settings → Screen Time) and that you granted Family Controls permission during setup. On Android, check that the Read to Unlock Accessibility service is still switched on (Settings → Accessibility) — some battery optimizers turn it off. If blocking still fails, restart the app or contact us.
How do I restore my purchase?
Open the app, go to Settings or the Pro section, and tap “Restore Purchases.” Make sure you are signed in with the same Apple ID or Google account you used for the original purchase.
How do I cancel my subscription?
On iPhone: Settings → your name → Subscriptions → Read to Unlock → Cancel Subscription. On Android: Google Play → your profile → Payments and subscriptions → Read to Unlock → Cancel. Cancellation takes effect at the end of the current billing period.