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Why are "Pauses" not unblocking my apps?

Updated over 3 weeks 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.


Here’s what you can do if the "Pauses" are not unblocking your apps:

1) Reload

  • Tap "Help" on any screen in Roots

  • Tap the "Reload Blocking" button

2) Start a new "Pause"

  • Tap to end a "Pause" early

  • Then, start a new "Pause"

Please let us know so we can add one "Pause" back to your account.

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

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

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.

6) Are you trying to unblock apps in an active "Challenge"?

At the moment, "Pauses" do not disable app blocking for "Challenges". We're working on making "Pauses" apply to "Challenges" as well. In the meantime, you may unblock apps in "Challenges" by going to: Help > (Scroll to the bottom) > Tap "Emergency Unblock"

Need more help? 


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!


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