Apple introduced several changes in iOS 26.2 that are impacting how Screen Time–based limits behave for some users. In some cases, iOS may trigger time limits earlier than expected, even when the full allotted time hasn’t been used.
We’re actively monitoring the situation and have reported our findings through Apple’s official channels. While we’re hopeful this will be addressed in a future iOS update, a complete or immediate fix may not be available at this time.
Things you can try right now
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) Turn off "Share Across Devices" on ALL iOS devices
This is the #1 reason time limits kick in too early:
Open "iOS Settings > Screen Time"
Make sure "Share Across Devices" is turned "OFF"
Important: Do this on ALL your Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, etc.)
Due to Apple limitations, having this on can cause usage from other devices to count toward your limits.
3) Update your iOS version
You can check your current iOS version by going to Settings > General > About > iOS Version.
If you're on an older iOS, we recommend updating to iOS 26.3 (or above) if you haven't already.
To update iOS:
Go to Settings > General > Software Update
If iOS 26.3 (or above) is available, tap "Download and Install"
4) Restart 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
5) 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
6) 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
7) 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 "ScreenTime" access again.
Note: Reconnecting may result in the loss of historical screen time data within the app.
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 by tapping the chat bubble below so we can help troubleshoot.
Need more help?
Get personal help from one of our founders here. We're happy to assist—and we'll even reward you for your valuable time!