Issue #24 of the Paywall Newsletter is here!
Screen-time apps are booming as people try to fight distraction and stay focused. But how do they actually monetize attention?
In this issue, we break down four real paywalls with the help of Max Borisik, Product Manager for Adapty’s Paywall Builder. Max works with top subscription apps daily, testing new paywall formats and spotting what drives revenue.
OffScreen: Screen Time Control
Last month revenue: $6K | Downloads: 10K
What’s working
- Social proof everywhere (reviews + Editor’s Choice)
- 7-day free trial builds trust
- Clean, modern layout
What could be worth testing
- Simplifying the layout by keeping either reviews or Editor’s Choice
- Benchmarking against competitors’ prices and exploring slightly higher tiers
- Lifetime plans are less common lately; worth trying a week + year combination, or the classic week / month / year trio
Focus Lock: Block Apps & Focus
Last month revenue: <$5K | Downloads: <5K
What’s working
- Smart discount framing
- Timer adds urgency
What could be worth testing
- Moving premium benefits above the show/hide button so they’re easier to see
- Adjusting yearly vs monthly balance; currently, the yearly option may be underpriced, which could affect LTV
AppBlock: Block Apps & Website
Last month revenue: $100K | Downloads: 40K
What’s working
- Trial terms are crystal clear
- “Cancel anytime” adds confidence
What could be worth testing
- Filling empty space with visuals to strengthen the design
- Enlarging or highlighting pricing so it’s easier to spot
Freedom: Screen Time Control
Last month revenue: $90K | Downloads: 20K
What’s working
- PRO benefits explained plainly
- Free trial + “no payment due now” builds trust
- “Maybe later” CTA feels respectful
What could be worth testing
- Trying a shorter trial (e.g., 3 vs 7 days) to limit free-riders and converting users while interest is high
- Trimming bullet points for more focus and easier readability
Takeaway
In this category, trust and simplicity win. Free trials and clear cancellation policies help; overloaded paywalls can push people away.
Curious how other apps monetize? Explore more paywalls we’ve reviewed.
Keep experimenting, keep growing.
