ShadowBlock is a technical network utility for iOS that provides deep traffic inspection, HTTPS decryption, and rule-based content blocking. Aimed at power users and network admins, it offers advanced features like URL rewriting and local DNS mapping for a low one-time fee of $1.99. However, the app has not been updated since 2019 and holds a poor 1.8-star rating, suggesting it is no longer a viable competitor against modern, actively developed tools like Quantumult X.

The App DNA

What makes this app unique?

For Power users, network administrators, and privacy-conscious individuals who need granular control over their iOS device's network traffic and ad-blocking capabilities.

What does it look like?

Key features

Traffic Capture & Analysisstandard

Captures and displays HTTP, HTTPS, and TCP traffic from all device applications for network monitoring.

HTTPS Decryptionedge

Allows for the inspection and decryption of encrypted HTTPS traffic for advanced debugging and filtering.

Rule-Based Content Blockingstandard

Blocks ads and content based on domain matching, keywords, user agents, and CIDR IP ranges.

URL Rewriteedge

Modifies incoming or outgoing URL requests on the fly for advanced network manipulation.

How much does it cost?

paidOne-time purchase at $1.99

The app utilizes a low-cost, one-time purchase model, positioning it as an affordable utility tool rather than a recurring subscription service.

Velocity

See all version history

Who built it?

Shadow Launch Technology

4 apps tracked · Utilities

ShadowrocketShadowrocketPepiPepiBlatuBlatu
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User Sentiment

What do users think recently?

The recent review mood reads upset.

How are ratings & reviews evolving?

App Store
1.82 · 11

What users say, by theme

What Frustrates Users
  • Instability
Read the full review analysis

Competition

Competitive landscape for ShadowBlock

How's the Utilities market?

Read the market outlook

The rivals identified

Quantumult X
Quantumult Xactive nemesis

By CrossUtility

The most direct rival offering a comprehensive rule-based proxy, HTTP/HTTPS traffic capture, and MITM decryption for power users.

ShadowBlock vs Quantumult X
HHTTP CatcherContenderTThorContenderAAdGuard ProContenderPPotatsoContender

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The Analyst's Read

Key takeaways for ShadowBlock

Where is it heading?

The SWOT

Core Strengths
  • Advanced MITM and HTTPS decryption capabilities
  • Low one-time purchase price
  • Granular rule-based filtering (CIDR, GeoIP)
Critical Frictions 3 weaknesses inside
Growth Levers
  • Capture users looking for a stable alternative to unmaintained legacy tools
  • Simplify the complex UI of advanced network tools for a broader audience
Market Threats 3 threats identified

Unlock 3 critical frictions, 3 market threats and the analyst’s take.

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Report last updated

Disclosure: Independent intel to help mobile builders succeed.

AI-powered analysis with automated quality gates, built from publicly available sources. Marlvel.ai is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ShadowBlock, its developer, the app publisher, Apple, or Google Play. All trademarks, logos, and screenshots referenced remain the property of their respective owners.

Cite this report

Marlvel.ai. “ShadowBlock Intelligence Report.” Updated Apr 7, 2026. https://marlvel.ai/apps/shadowblock

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