Apple introduced several changes in iOS26.2 that are impacting how Screen Time–based limits behave for some users, including those using Roots.
We are actively monitoring the situation and have reported our findings through Apple’s official channels. While we’re hopeful this will be addressed in the next iOS update, there may not be a complete or immediate fix available at this time.
What we’ve observed
In some cases, iOS appears to incorrectly trigger time limits earlier than expected.
One specific pattern we’ve seen:
When an iPhone is plugged in to charge, iOS may prematurely mark a Screen Time limit as “reached”
This can cause time limits created in Roots to activate even though the full allotted time has not been used
For some users, this behavior appears less likely when the phone is not actively charging, though results vary
This behavior appears to be coming from Apple’s Screen Time system rather than Roots itself, and it does not affect all users.
Does this affect all blocks?
So far, this issue seems most commonly tied to time-based limits.
If you’re experiencing other blocking issues, please check our Help Center or reach out to us directly so we can help troubleshoot.
Things you can try right now
While there’s no guaranteed fix until Apple resolves the underlying issue, the following steps have helped some users reduce or avoid the problem:
1) Reload blocking
This often resolves the issue immediately:
Open the Roots app
Tap "Help" (at the top of any screen)
Select "Reload Blocking"
Wait a few seconds, then test your blocking
2) If that doesn't work, try restarting your phone:
Power off your iPhone completely and restart it
Then go back to Roots and try the "Reload Blocking" step again
We've found this combination works really well for post-update issues
3) Make small edits to your blocks and resave:
Go to "Roots > Blocking"
Tap the pencil icon on each block
Make a small change (like adding or removing one app)
Tap "Save"
This can help refresh the block's connection with Screen Time
4) Delete and recreate your blocks
If reloading doesn't work:
Go to "Roots > Blocking"
Delete your existing blocks by tapping the pencil icon on each block, scrolling down, and tapping "Delete"
Create new blocks with the same settings
This refreshes the connection with iOS 26's updated Screen Time system
5) Pay attention to charging patterns
Notice whether the issue happens when you're charging your phone, and if so, strategically choose the times you charge to minimize disruption.
Need more help?
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We know this is frustrating, and we appreciate your patience while Apple works through these Screen Time regressions.