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Why is my screen time inaccurate?

Why is Roots Screen Time higher than Apple? Why do some apps count toward screen time even when not in use?

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.


Here’s what you can do:
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1) Reload

Tap "Help > Reload Blocking"

2) Turn off "Share Across Devices" on ALL iOS devices

Please try turning off "Share Across Devices" on ALL iOS devices:

  1. Open "iOS Settings > Screen Time"

  2. Make sure "Share Across Devices" is turned off

  3. If you have multiple Apple devices, disable this on each one. Due to Apple’s limitations, this is required for Roots to track correctly.

Learn more how to turn off "Share Across Devices" here.

3) Check if "Apple Screen Time" is misreporting your screen time

  • Go to "iOS settings > Screen Time"

  • Check to see if Apple is misreporting usage

  • Unfortunately in some cases Apple over-reports screen time and that will make your Roots screen time numbers inaccurate as well

  • We are about to release a potential workaround for this where you can exclude certain apps on certain days
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4) Reconnect "Screen Time" access

  • Open "Settings > Screen Time"

  • Navigate to "Apps with Screen Time Access"

  • Toggle Roots OFF, then back ON

  • Tap "Continue" to grant Roots "Screen Time" access again

  • Note: Reconnecting "Screen Time" access may lead to the loss of historical screen time data within the app.
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5) Check linked devices and "Family Sharing"

Do you have a family plan or any other devices, such as a child’s device, connected to your Apple ID? If yes, your child's screen time may count toward total screen time.

6) Is Apple showing "AuthKitUIService" or other odd usage?

  • Due to limitations with Apple Screen Time, sometimes Apple will report usage that does not make sense or match your actual usage

  • This may show up as "AuthKitUIService" or "User Authentication"

  • We are currently investigating ways to workaround the bug and remove this, but usually it only happens for a day or two when you start using the app and then it resolves itself

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!


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