Skip to main content

App blocking is not working

App blocking or unblocking not working like it should?

Updated over a month ago

We're here to help

First off, we know this can be frustrating. We apologize for the inconvenience and will make sure you are well taken care of. In many cases issues are from Apple’s Screen Time not syncing properly.

In 99% of cases, the steps below will solve the issue. If you want a more specific guide, here are a few use cases with separate articles:

Troubleshoot blocking and unblocking

If you are having blocking and unblocking issues with "Time Limit", "Time of Day" or "All Day (Limited Unblocks)", please try the following steps!

1) Try reloading

  • Tap "Help" on the top right of any screen

  • Tap "Reload Blocking"

  • This should fix most issues immediately

  • If you are having to reload constantly please contact us!

2) Check your settings

  • Turn off "Share Across Devices"

  • Check difficulty and app selections in Roots

  • Remove screen time permissions from other apps

  • Update to the latest version of Roots

3) Force quit the Roots app

  • Force close Roots and open it again to reset the connection

  • Click here if you don't know how to do that

4) Restart your phone

  • Restart your phone

  • Update to the latest iOS version

5) Reset "Screen Time" permissions

  • Go to "Settings" > "Screen Time"

  • Scroll down and find "Roots"

  • Remove access, then re-open the Roots app

  • Give access to screen time permissions when prompted

  • Note: Reconnecting Screen Time access may lead to the loss of historical screen time data within the app.

One more thing to try:

If none of the suggested troubleshooting works, please try giving screen time permissions to a different app. In some cases the screen time API can get hung up on the Apple side, and doing this can force things to reset:

  • Keep Roots open but in the background

  • Download another screen time app, such as this one

  • Go through onboarding until you give screen time permissions

  • Once approved, re-open Roots

Still having issues? 


Get personal help from one of our founders here. We know this can be frustrating, and we appreciate your patience. We're happy to assist—and we’ll even reward you for your valuable time!


Did this answer your question?