8 Apps to Limit Screen Time on iOS Devices

Like that Black Mirror episode, smartphones have become an integral part of our lives. We hardly go anywhere without them and depend so much on these smart devices that they feel like part of our DNA. This dependence on screens is a survival skill we are passing on to the next generation. Even a 2-year-old wants to learn how smartphones work. But is this constant screen time affecting our well-being? Researchers have found a direct correlation between screen time and overall well-being. It's time to take control of our screen usage and limit the time spent in front of digital screens.

Here are 8 of the best iOS apps to help you limit screen time and monitor your kids' activities:

1. Screen Time

Screen Time is an app released by Apple with the release of iOS 12. It comes pre-installed on all iPhones and iPads. With Screen Time, you can set Downtime, which is a time slot when selected apps like games and social media apps will be unavailable. You can also set App Limits to control which apps your kids can use during Downtime or at other times. Screen Time also allows you to restrict content and set privacy restrictions. It provides reports on your kid's time spent on the device.

Pros:

• Free
• Reports
• Restrict apps and content
• Set downtime by time, duration, and days

Cons:

• Reports of kids bypassing restrictions
• Can't select individual apps

2. Parental Control App – Kidslox

Kidslox is a parental control app that allows you to limit screen time and block individual apps on iOS devices. It offers a unique Lockdown mode that locks all apps and the device itself. Kidslox also provides detailed instructions on app usage, reports, and the ability to set downtime for specific apps.

Pros:

• Detailed instructions on app usage
• Set app-wise restrictions
• Reports
• Set downtime
• Lockdown mode

Cons:

• Subscription required

3. ZenScreen

ZenScreen is another app to limit screen time on iOS devices. It allows you to create schedules to determine when and which apps can be accessed. ZenScreen also includes a feature called Smart Breaks, which forces short breaks between app usage. The app provides detailed reports on app usage.

Pros:

• Choose apps individually
• Create schedules
• Set breaks

Cons:

• Subscription required

4. unGlue

unGlue is a unique app that not only helps you control and monitor screen time but also doubles as an activity counter. It allows you to set limits on apps, create schedules, and set rules for internet usage. unGlue also includes a step counter and the ability to rollover unused minutes to the next day.

Pros:

• Rollover unused time
• Set internet on/off
• Create schedules
• Restrict apps
• Step counter
• Reports

Cons:

• Subscription required

5. SaferKid

SaferKid addresses the problem of “sexting” and “bullying” by offering a way to monitor text messages. It also provides personal reviews on popular apps to help parents determine which ones should be allowed. SaferKid allows you to restrict apps, set schedule downtime, and track calls, text messages, and web history.

Pros:

• Restrict apps and content
• Set schedule downtime
• Apps reviewed by team
• Track calls, text messages, web history

Cons:

• Subscription required

6. Space

Space helps you break screen addiction by offering an 8-day course that aims to change your screen usage habits. It allows you to set goals, track progress, and offers self-reflection tools.

Pros:

• 8-day course
• Set goals
• Self-reflect

Cons:

• No app locking or content restrictions

7. Google Family Link

Google Family Link is a comprehensive parental control app that allows you to lock apps, set schedules, and block inappropriate content. It also includes Play Store restrictions and the ability to track your kids' location.

Pros:

• Free
• Track apps and content
• Set restrictions on apps and content
• Limit Play Store activity
• Create schedules
• Track your kids

Cons:

• None

8. Moment

Moment is a feature-rich app that allows you to set timers and schedules, learn how to break screen habits, and view reports on screen time. It can be used as a self-control app or installed on your kids' devices to track their usage.

Pros:

• Set app and content restrictions
• In-depth coach
• View reports
• Set timers and schedules
• Screen-free time for everyone

Cons:

• Kids can lock apps
• Subscription required

These apps provide various features to help you limit screen time and monitor your kids' activities. Choose the one that suits your needs and take control of your screen usage.

Remember, it's important to find a balance between screen time and other activities. By limiting screen time, you can encourage your kids to spend more time outdoors, engage in physical activities, and develop other skills.