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Resolve Screen Time Issues by Resetting the Screen Time Passcode
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Screen Time Limits Not Working Solutions To Fix Now

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Nov 28, 2024 • Filed to: Remove Screen Lock • Proven solutions

Having trouble with screen time limits not working on your iPhone? You’re not alone. Many users set these limits to manage app usage, monitor their children’s screen time, or stay focused—only to find the restrictions don’t work as expected. Sometimes, the limits don’t activate, fail to update, or can even be bypassed. While frustrating, these issues often have simple fixes, such as adjusting settings or updating software.

In this guide, we’ll explore why Apple screen time not working happens, how to troubleshoot it, and introduce you to a bonus tool for managing screen time without a passcode.

Part 1: Why Are App Limits Not Functioning Properly on iPhone or iPad?

According to Wall Street Journal reports Apple acknowledged problems with the iPhone's screen time limits not working. While an iOS 17.1 update may correct this, users continue to report that sometimes limits are just not in effect, especially parents enforcing limits on app activity for their kids. Let's take a closer look at why screen time limits might not be working as intended when installing different versions of iOS - including iOS 18, iOS 17, and iOS 16.

Part 1: Common Causes of Screen Time Limit Issues on iOS

    1. Software Bugs and Glitches

Like many other apps, Screen Time on iPhone not working may result from iOS software bugs or glitches. These issues can cause app limits to behave unpredictably, especially after a recent update.

    1. Incorrect Screen Time Settings

If iPhone screen time limits aren’t working, it could be due to incorrect settings. Verify that app limits are configured for the desired apps and time periods, ensuring they align with your intended usage restrictions.

    1. Syncing Challenges Across Devices

For users with Family Sharing enabled or multiple Apple devices, screen time limits not updating could be a syncing issue. Make sure that all devices are properly synchronized so that app limits apply consistently.

    1. Potential for User Workarounds

Children or teens may discover ways to bypass app limits by tweaking settings or using loopholes, which could be why iPhone app limits aren’t working as expected. Keep an eye on possible user overrides if Screen Time doesn’t seem effective.

    1. Downtime Configuration Conflicts

If Downtime is active, certain apps may still be available during those periods. Double-check your Downtime settings to confirm they’re set up properly, as this can impact the effectiveness of app limits.

  1. App Compatibility with Screen Time

Some popular apps, such as YouTube, Snapchat, Brawl Stars, and Roblox, may not fully adhere to Screen Time restrictions. This lack of compatibility can sometimes mean that app limits on iPhone aren’t working as intended, even if settings appear correct.

Part 2: Solutions to Fix Screen Time Limits Not Working

Solution 1: Set a New Screen Time Passcode

If the app restrictions aren’t effective, it may be because someone accessed Screen Time settings and altered them. Creating a new passcode will protect these settings.

Step 1: Access Screen Time in Settings

Navigate to Screen Time in the Settings application on the device you are using.

Step 2: Lock Screen Time Settings

Scroll down to find Lock Screen Time Settings and select it. Then, follow the prompts to set a new Screen Time Passcode.

set passcode to fix screentime limit not working

Solution 2: Enable "Block at the end of Limit"

When setting an app usage limit, you can choose to either receive a simple alert when the limit is reached or fully block app access unless a passcode is entered. Make sure "Block at End of Limit" is turned on, which is crucial for fixing problems with the screen time app limit not working.

Step 1: Open App Limits

Go to Settings, select Screen Time, and tap App Limits.

Step 2: Add App Limits

Tap on Add Limit, choose the apps you want to restrict, and then tap Next.

Step 3: Set Time Limit and Enable Blocking

Select the time limit you want, then toggle on Block at the End of Limit to ensure the app becomes inaccessible when time is up. Tap Add to save these settings.

check block end limit to fix app limits not working

Solution 3: Restart the Screen Time Feature

Refreshing Screen Time by turning it off and back on can often resolve issues with iOS screen time not working.

Step 1: Turn Off Screen Time

In Settings, go to Screen Time and select Turn Off Screen Time. Enter your passcode if prompted to confirm.

Step 2: Wait, Then Re-enable Screen Time

After a few moments, turn Screen Time back on by tapping Turn On Screen Time in the same settings menu.

turn off on screen time

Solution 4: Set Individual App Limits

If setting a universal time limit doesn’t suit your needs, try setting specific limits for each app. This option lets you monitor and manage app usage with customized settings, which may help address screen time on iphone not working issues.

Step 1: Open App Limits

Navigate to Settings, then tap Screen Time, and select App Limits.

Step 2: Add Limit for Specific Apps

Tap on Add Limit, enter your Screen Time passcode, and choose the app from the list for which you’d like to set a specific limit.

Step 3: Customize Time and Block Option

Choose the usage time limit for each day, then toggle on Block at End of Limit to restrict access when the limit is reached.

set app limit to fix screentime limit not working

Solution 5: Restart Your iPhone or iPad

Rebooting your device refreshes the system and may solve any issues causing screen time limits not working.

Step 1: Initiate a Restart

Hold the power button and choose Restart on your iPhone or iPad.

Step 2: Check Screen Time Limits After Restart

Once your device reboots, check if the Screen Time limits are working as expected.

force restart iphone

Solution 6: Resolve Screen Time Issues by Resetting the Screen Time Passcode

If your child has changed the Screen Time passcode without your knowledge, they could effectively bypass the set usage limits, causing you to think that iPhone Screen Time limits are not working. It’s also common to simply forget the passcode. In these cases, tools like Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) provide an easy way to reset your Screen Time passcode without erasing data on your iPhone or iPad.

Additional Features of Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS):

  • Remove Apple ID Without Password: If you’ve lost access to your Apple ID, Dr.Fone lets you remove it without needing the password.
  • Bypass MDM Restrictions Without Jailbreaking: Manage and unlock your device’s Mobile Device Management (MDM) settings without any complicated jailbreak process.
  • Unlock Forgotten Lock Screen Password: Regain access to your device if you’ve forgotten the screen lock password, ensuring you retain full control.
  • Enhanced Device Control: Dr.Fone offers comprehensive control over your iPhone or iPad, resolving issues like the Screen Time app limit not working or Screen Time not updating on your iPhone.
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Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Resolve Screen Time Issues by Resetting the Screen Time Passcode.

  • Simple, click-through, process.
  • Unlock screen passwords from all iPhones and iPads.
  • No tech knowledge is required, everybody can handle it.
  • Supports the latest iOS version fully!New icon
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Steps to Remove Screen Time Passcode Using Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Step 1: Launch Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock

Start by opening Wondershare Dr.Fone on your computer. Go to Toolbox > Screen Unlock > iOS to access the specific tool.

access screen unlock tool

Step 2: Select Unlock Screen Time Passcode

From the available options, choose Unlock Screen Time Passcode to begin the process of unlocking.

look for unlock screen time passcode

Step 3: Connect Your iOS Device to the Computer

Use a USB cable to connect your iOS device to your computer.

connect ios device with usb

Once connected, the platform will recognize your iDevice and display its status.

lead to connection

Step 4: Unlock the iPhone

After the device is successfully connected, click on Unlock Now to proceed.

start unlocking idevice

Step 5: Turn Off Find My iPhone

A prompt will ask you to disable the Find My service. Open the Settings on your iPhone, tap on your name at the top, then go to Find My Settings and toggle Find My iPhone off. Once done, confirm by clicking OK on your computer screen.

turn off find my feature

Step 6: Monitor Unlock Progress

A progress bar will appear, showing the status of the unlocking process.

view removal of screen time passcode

Step 7: Complete the Unlocking

Once the process is complete, you’ll see a success message on the platform. Click Done to finish the process.

remove screen time passcode

Conclusion:

With these solutions, you can troubleshoot screen time limits not working on your iPhone and make the most of the feature to support balanced screen use. If common fixes don’t resolve issues like screen time not updating or screen time not working on iPhone, you might consider an additional tool. The Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) software is especially helpful for users facing forgotten passcodes or persistent errors, offering a smooth way to reset screen time settings without a passcode. By following these steps, you can regain control and ensure your device restrictions are effective.

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FAQs

Reinstalling apps typically doesn’t allow users to bypass Screen Time limits on iOS devices. However, to prevent any workaround, make sure that the limits are re-applied after reinstallation to keep these restrictions intact.
Some apps, like calling and messaging, might still be accessible if they’re added under Always Allowed in Screen Time settings. To control access, go to Settings > Screen Time > Always Allowed and adjust the list of permitted apps.
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James Davis

staff Editor

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