How to Lock and Block YouTube on iPhone: Complete Guide

YouTube has become one of the most popular platforms for entertainment, education, and information. However, its endless stream of content can sometimes turn into a distraction, whether it's for children, students, or even adults looking to stay focused.

Many iPhone users find the need to lock or block YouTube app on iphones, whether to enforce parental controls, improve productivity, or simply limit screen time. Addressing these concerns is crucial for managing distractions effectively.

One excellent solution for securing YouTube access is Dr.Fone - App Lock, a reliable tool designed to help users restrict access to apps like YouTube with ease. In this guide, we'll explore how to lock youtube on iphone and how to disable youtube shorts on iphone using this and other effective methods.

Part 1: How to Lock YouTube on iPhone with Password

Locking YouTube on your iPhone is an effective way to minimize distractions and maintain focus. Whether you're trying to stay productive during work or study hours or managing screen time for children, setting up restrictions can make a big difference.

By locking YouTube, adults can create a more distraction-free environment, enabling them to focus better and achieve their goals. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to lock youtube on iphone using built-in features like Screen Time.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Using the Screen Time Feature:

Screen Time is a powerful tool on iPhones that helps manage app usage and set restrictions.

Step 1: Open Settings on your iPhone and navigate to Screen Time.

Step 2: Tap Turn On Screen Time if it's not already enabled, and set a Screen Time Passcode for security.

Step 3: Go to App Limits and tap Add Limit.

Step 4: Select YouTube from the list of apps, then set a daily usage limit (e.g., 1 hour).

Step 5: Tap Add to save your settings.

2. Enabling "Always Allowed" Apps:

YouTube may appear on the "Always Allowed" apps list, which bypasses restrictions. Adjusting this ensures your app limit works effectively.

Step 1: In Screen Time, tap Always Allowed.

Step 2: Locate YouTube in the list and remove it by tapping the minus (-) icon.

Step 3: Confirm your selection.

3. Setting Up Downtime:

Downtime allows you to block apps during specific hours, such as work or study periods.

Step 1: Open Screen Time and select Downtime.

Step 2: Toggle it on and set your preferred start and end times.

Step 3: During these hours, YouTube and other restricted apps will be locked unless you enter the passcode.

By following these steps, you can effectively lock YouTube on your iPhone, promoting a more productive and distraction-free experience.

Part 2: How to Block YouTube App on iPhone

Blocking YouTube on your iPhone is essential for establishing clear digital boundaries. Whether you’re looking to enforce parental controls or manage your own screen time, restricting access to YouTube can help create a more balanced digital environment. Not all apps need to be accessible at all times, and setting limits ensures better focus and control over content consumption.

Here are three effective methods on how to block youtube on iphone.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Blocking the App Using Screen Time

Screen Time offers a straightforward way to block YouTube entirely.

Step 1: Open Settings and navigate to Screen Time.

Step 2: Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and enable the toggle.

Step 3: Select Allowed Apps and scroll down to find YouTube.

Step 4: Toggle off YouTube to block it from being accessed on the device.

2. Disabling Safari or Other Browsers

If YouTube is accessible through a web browser, you can disable Safari or other browsers to prevent access.

Step 1: In Settings, go to Screen Time and tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.

Step 2: Select Allowed Apps and locate Safari.

Step 3: Toggle off Safari to disable the browser, effectively blocking access to YouTube's website.

3. Utilizing DNS Settings

Changing the DNS settings on your iPhone can block access to YouTube across apps and browsers.

Step 1: Open Settings and go to Wi-Fi.

Step 2: Tap the information icon next to your connected Wi-Fi network.

Step 3: Scroll down to Configure DNS and select Manual.

Step 4: Tap Add Server and enter a DNS server address designed to block YouTube (e.g., OpenDNS or similar services).

Step 5: Save your changes by tapping Done.

Blocking YouTube on your iPhone with these methods ensures a distraction-free experience while reinforcing the importance of controlled app access.

Part 3: Using Dr.Fone - App Lock: Time and Location-Based Control for Ultimate Privacy

When it comes to securing apps like YouTube on your iPhone, Dr.Fone - App Lock stands out as an exceptional solution. Offering advanced features such as time and location-based control, this app adds an extra layer of privacy and convenience for managing your digital boundaries.

Introduction to Dr.Fone - App Lock

Dr.Fone - App Lock empowers users with robust security options, allowing you to learn how to lock youtube with password or biometric authentication. Whether you want to restrict access during work hours, at specific locations, or for children, this tool delivers unmatched flexibility and control.

Dr.Fone App - App Lock (iOS)

Enhanced App Security: Lock/Hide Apps Based on Time and Location

• Lock apps to prevent accidental deletions or downloads.
• Hide apps from the home screen for enhanced privacy.
• Face ID/PIN code protection for secure access.
• Supports iOS 16 and above.

3981454 people have downloaded it

Step-by-Step Guide to Locking YouTube Using Dr.Fone - App Lock

Here's how to effectively use Dr.Fone - App Lock to secure YouTube on your iPhone.

01of 04Launch the App Lock Tool

Download and install the Dr.Fone app on your iPhone. Open the app and tap the blue AI Tools Toolbox located at the bottom center of the screen. Navigate to the Discover page and select the App Lock card to access app-locking features.

02of 04Add and Organize App Groups

Tap "Please add a group first" to create a new group for the apps you want to lock. Select YouTube from the list of installed apps and click Save to finalize. Optionally, rename the group for better organization.

03of 04Apply Restrict Time or Restrict Zone

Set Restrict Time to lock YouTube during specific hours (e.g., work or study hours). Use Restrict Zone to lock YouTube when within a designated geographical area. Simply long-press the map, set the zone, and save the configuration.

04of 04Secure the App Lock Tool with Face ID or PIN Code

Tap the settings icon in the top right corner of the App Lock page. Enable Face ID or set up a PIN code for added security, ensuring only authorized users can modify settings or unlock apps.

Key Features of Dr.Fone - App Lock

• Hidden Apps Feature: Apps like YouTube can disappear entirely from the home screen and will not display any notifications.
• Flexible Restrictions: Lock or hide apps based on time, location, or both.
• Biometric and PIN Security: Offers advanced security through Face ID or PIN access.
• Custom App Groups: Create unlimited app groups to manage and secure apps based on your needs.

Dr.Fone - App Lock is a powerful tool for managing YouTube access and maintaining ultimate privacy on your iPhone. Whether for personal use or parental controls, this app offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs.

Bonus Tip: How to Disable YouTube Shorts on iPhone

YouTube Shorts, with their quick, engaging format, can be a major distraction, especially for those trying to stay focused or limit screen time. Disabling or minimizing exposure to Shorts on your iPhone can help create a more intentional browsing experience. Here are some practical ways on how to disable youtube shorts on iphone.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Navigating YouTube Settings

YouTube settings allow you to manage notifications and reduce interruptions from Shorts.

Step 1: Open the YouTube app on your iPhone and tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.

Step 2: Navigate to Settings > Notifications.

Step 3: Turn off notifications for Shorts to avoid being alerted to new content.

2. Adjusting Preferences

Customizing your preferences in the app can limit your exposure to Shorts.

Step 1: Open the YouTube app and tap the Home icon.

Step 2: Long-press any Shorts video that appears on your feed and select Not Interested.

Step 3: Repeat this process for other Shorts videos to train the algorithm to show fewer of them.

3. Parental Controls

If the device is used by children, enabling parental controls can restrict access to Shorts entirely.

Step 1: Open the YouTube app and tap your profile icon.

Step 2: Go to Settings > General > Restricted Mode and toggle it on.

Step 3: This mode filters out inappropriate content and may limit access to certain Shorts.

By managing YouTube settings, adjusting preferences, and using parental controls, you can effectively reduce distractions from YouTube Shorts on your iPhone.

Conclusion

By leveraging iPhone's built-in features, such as Screen Time and Content Restrictions, you can set boundaries and manage app usage efficiently. For a more robust and customizable approach, Dr.Fone - App Lock offers advanced features like app hiding, time and location-based restrictions, and biometric security, ensuring a tailored experience.