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Why are "Screen Time" notifications not working properly?

If you're not receiving "Screen Time" notifications from Roots, or they're showing up inconsistently, here are some steps to get them working properly:
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1) Turn off "Share Across Devices" on ALL iOS devices

This is the #1 cause of notification issues:

  • Open "Settings > ScreenTime" on each device you own

  • Make sure "Share Across Devices" is turned "OFF"

  • Do this on ALL your Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, etc.)

Due to Apple limitations, having this enabled can interfere with how Roots tracks your usage and sends notifications.
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Learn more about disabling "Share Across Devices" here.
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2) Check your notification permissions


​On your iPhone:

  • Go to "Settings > Notifications"

  • Find Roots in the list

  • Make sure "Allow Notifications" is turned ON

  • Ensure "Badges," "Sounds," and "Banners" are enabled


​In your Roots account:

  • You can turn notifications on or off for each block while creating or editing it, under "Notifications".
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  • You can also go to: “Roots > Today (bottom tab) > Account settings (top left) > Notifications (under Personalization)"
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    • Toggle ON the notifications you want to receive:

      • Screen time alerts

      • Weekly reports

      • Marketing
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In each block:

You can also turn notifications on or off for individual blocks:

  • Go to "Roots > Blocking (bottom tab)"

  • Tap on the block you'd like to check and scroll down

  • Make sure notification settings (under "Notifications") are turned ON

  • Tap "Save"

If you're not getting notifications for one block but are for others, this is the first place to check.
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3) Refresh your "Screen Time" data

  • Tap the refresh icon at the top-right of your Roots homepage

  • This ensures your usage data is current and notifications can trigger properly
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What notifications should you receive?

You should get notifications for:

  • Daily limits

    • When limit is reached

    • When 5 min of limit remains

    • When 50 per cent of limit remains
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  • Blocked hours

    • When blocked hours starts

    • When blocked hours ends
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  • Screen time alerts: Hourly updates on your usage
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  • Weekly reports: Get notified when your weekly report is ready
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  • Marketing: Get notified about new features and special offers​
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Need more help?

Get personal help from one of our founders here.

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