How to set screen time limits on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To set screen time limits on an iPhone, navigate to Settings Screen Time, then tap 'App Limits' to add limits for specific apps or categories. You can also set downtime and content restrictions to manage usage effectively.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before setting screen time limits on your iPhone, ensure you have the following:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 12 or later (iOS 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17).
  • •Access to the device with the Screen Time feature enabled.
  • •Apple ID for Family Sharing if setting limits for a child's device.
  • •Ensure your device is updated to the latest iOS version for optimal performance.

Method 1: Using Screen Time in Settings

This is the primary method to set screen time limits directly through the iPhone's settings.
  • •Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone by tapping the gear icon.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Screen Time'. If it's your first time using it, tap 'Turn On Screen Time' and follow the prompts.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'App Limits' to set limits for specific apps or categories. Tap 'Add Limit'.
  • •Step 4: Select the app category or specific apps you want to limit, then tap 'Next'.
  • •Step 5: Set the time limit (e.g., 1 hour) and tap 'Add'.
  • •Step 6: To verify, return to the 'App Limits' section to see your newly added limits.
  • •Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure Screen Time is enabled and that you are not exceeding the maximum limit set.

For iOS 17

iOS 17 introduces a more streamlined interface for setting screen time limits.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings and tap on 'Screen Time'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'App Limits', then 'Add Limit'.
  • •Step 3: Use the new search feature to quickly find apps.
  • •Step 4: Set your desired limit and tap 'Add'.

For iOS 16 and earlier

The steps are similar but may lack some features available in iOS 17.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings and tap 'Screen Time'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'App Limits', then 'Add Limit'.
  • •Step 3: Manually scroll to find apps and set limits.

Method 2: Using Family Sharing for Child Accounts

This method is useful for parents wanting to manage screen time for their children's devices.
  • •Step 1: Ensure Family Sharing is set up on your Apple ID. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Screen Time' for the child's account.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as Method 1 to set app limits.
  • •Step 4: You can also set 'Downtime' to restrict usage during specific hours.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while setting screen time limits, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Screen Time is not available' - Solution: Ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version.
  • •Issue: Limits not applying - Fix: Check if 'Use Screen Time Passcode' is set and that you are entering the correct passcode.
  • •Problem: App limits not showing - Workaround: Restart your iPhone and check settings again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these advanced tips:
  • •Shortcut: To quickly access Screen Time, add it to your Control Center by going to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Downtime' to schedule breaks from all apps except those you allow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Utilizing Screen Time effectively can lead to healthier device habits and improved focus.