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Why are apps that I have not selected getting blocked? (ex: WhatsApp)

Updated over a week ago

We're here to help.

First off, we know this can be frustrating. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and will make sure you're well taken care of.
If you have ongoing issues, we'll even offer you a free subscription.

  • If you need to unblock in an emergency, click here

  • Want hands on support? Click here to troubleshoot with one of our founders

Steps to troubleshoot:

1) Some websites or apps can cause related apps to be blocked

Apps from the same company may also be blocked when you choose a website or apps that are related to the company who owns the app. This is a bug from Apple.

  • Facebook.com can block WhatsApp, Messenger, or other Meta apps

  • Amazon.com can block Audible

  • In rare cases Facebook app can block other Meta apps (ex: Meta View)

Here is one thing to try:

  • Go to "iOS Settings > Screen Time > Always Allowed"

  • Then, add the app you want to access as "Always Allowed"

  • Save, and see if that allows you to access the app

If this doesn't work, since right now there is not a good workaround due to Apple limitations, we suggest you remove the websites or apps from your blocking to avoid this issue. Sorry for the inconvenience!


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2) Check if apps are being blocked in multiple places (i.e. Challenges)

  • Go to "Roots > Blocking"

  • Tap on each block you’ve created to check if the apps are being blocked in multiple places. If so, you’ll need to unblock them from each individual block

  • Next, go to "Roots > Challenge" — you’ll also need to unblock the apps from here if they’re listed
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3) Remove any blocking you have set up outside of Roots

  • If you have any blocking active in iOS "Screen Time" or other screen time apps, it can cause issues and make the Roots "Time Limits" and "Time of Day" blocks to not work properly

  • Remove any existing blocking you have outside of the Roots app

  • Remove screen time permissions from other screen time apps
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4) Reload blocking

Tap "Help (top of any screen) > Reload Blocking". If you are having to reload constantly please contact us!​
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Have an emergency?​

If you need to unblock in an emergency, click here​
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If the problem persists:

Please send us:

  • A screenshot of your "Roots > Blocking" page

  • A quick note on which steps of this guide you’ve already tried

  • Please contact us by tapping the chat bubble below

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