Limiting total screen time, not just app by app.

From what I can tell, I can limit restrictions app by app, however, it doesn’t count toward a cumulative total. So my kid can still spend five or six hours on their phone by jumping to the next app, after the previous limit has been reached.

Is there a way to put a limit on the phone, once a certain amount of total time/utilization has been reached?

Downtime is very cumbersome and requires a specific schedule, which is not helpful in this case.

I would really value it way to say “you have X hours per day to use your phone, your choice how you choose to use it, but once you’ve hit the limit that’s it”.

Please help!

iPhone X, iOS 14

Posted on Oct 1, 2023 11:13 PM

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1 reply

Oct 3, 2023 7:24 PM in response to ZanderRoss

Thanks for posting in the Apple Support Communities ZanderRoss,


If you're looking to limit overall usage of the device, Downtime would be the best option.


When you schedule downtime in Settings, only phone calls and apps that you choose to allow are available. Downtime applies to all of your Screen Time-enabled devices, and you get a reminder five minutes before it starts. If you set a Screen Time passcode, Downtime includes an additional setting: Block At Downtime. When you choose this setting and you click Ask For More Time when Downtime starts, entering the passcode allows you to approve the app for 15 minutes, an hour, or all day. Child accounts can click One More Minute once, or click Ask For More Time to send their request to the parent account for approval.

Use Screen Time on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch


You can leave feedback about changes and options you'd like to see in the future, here: Apple - Product Feedback


Cheers!


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Limiting total screen time, not just app by app.

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