We're here to help.
First off, we know this can be frustrating. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.
If you have multiple iOS devices (like an iPhone and iPad) with "Share Across Devices" turned ON, you might notice inconsistent syncing behavior - one device shows combined screen time from both devices while the other only shows its own usage.
This is an Apple "Screen Time" limitation, not a Roots issue. When "Share Across Devices" is enabled, Apple controls which device receives the aggregated data, and this syncing can be unpredictable or one-directional.
Understanding the limitation
Unfortunately, there's no way to force both devices to show combined screen time data if Apple's system isn't syncing it bidirectionally. This is entirely controlled by Apple's "Screen Time" infrastructure.
Our recommendation: Turn off "Share Across Devices"
For Roots to work most reliably, we actually recommend turning off "Share Across Devices" on ALL your iOS devices. Here's why:
Apple's syncing can cause usage from one device to incorrectly count toward blocks on another device
It often leads to inaccurate tracking and unexpected blocking behavior
Most Roots users find blocking works more reliably with this setting OFF on all devices
How to turn off "Share Across Devices"
Follow these steps on EACH of your iOS devices:
Open "Settings > Screen Time"
Scroll down to find "Share Across Devices"
Switch the toggle "OFF"
Learn more about disabling "Share Across Devices" here.
What happens with "Share Across Devices" OFF
Each device tracks its own usage independently
Blocking works more reliably on each device
You avoid cross-device interference with time limits and blocking
Your Roots Premium subscription still works across all devices
Additional step: Turn off "App & Website Activity" on other devices
Even if "Share Across Devices" is OFF, you may need to:
Go to "iOS Settings > Screen Time > Scroll Down > Turn Off App and Website Activity"
Do this on ALL devices except the one you want to track most actively
This ensures only your primary device is tracking app usage
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!