How to Block Apps on iPhone?

Your iPhone comes with a native tool called Screen Time that allows you to set limits on app usage. It's a great starting point for taking control of your device.

Step 1: Enable Screen Time

First, you need to make sure Screen Time is turned on.

Go to Settings on your iPhone.
Scroll down and tap on Screen Time.
If it's your first time, you'll see an introductory screen. Tap Continue.
You'll be asked if the iPhone is for you or your child. Select This is My iPhone.

Step 2: Set App Limits

App Limits let you set daily time restrictions for specific app categories or individual apps.

In the Screen Time menu, tap on App Limits.
Tap Add Limit.
You'll see a list of app categories (e.g., Social, Games, Entertainment). You can select an entire category or tap the arrow next to it to choose specific apps. For example, to block Instagram and TikTok, you would tap the arrow next to "Social" and select them from the list.
After selecting your apps, tap Next at the top right.
Set the amount of time you want to allow for these apps each day. For instance, setting it to 1 hour means that after 60 minutes of combined usage, the apps will be blocked.
You can also tap Customize Days to set different limits for different days of the week.
Make sure the "Block at End of Limit" toggle is turned on. This is what actually blocks the app once your time is up.
Tap Add in the top right corner to save your limit.

When you reach your time limit, the app icons will appear dimmed on your home screen, and a screen will appear telling you that you've reached your limit for the day. While Screen Time offers an option to "Ignore Limit," the initial barrier is often enough to make you reconsider opening the app.

Step 3: Use Downtime for Scheduled Blocking

Downtime is another feature within Screen Time that blocks all but your most essential apps during a scheduled period.

In the Screen Time menu, tap on Downtime.
Toggle Scheduled on and set the start and end times for your Downtime. This is perfect for setting up a distraction-free period overnight or during work hours.
Next, go back to the main Screen Time menu and tap Always Allowed. Here, you can select apps that you always want access to, even during Downtime (e.g., Phone, Messages, or a meditation app). All other apps will be blocked.

While Apple's Screen Time is a useful tool, its "Ignore Limit" option can be easy to bypass when you lack willpower. For those who need more robust features and stronger blocking capabilities, a dedicated third-party app is the answer.
Our app is designed to give you ultimate control over your digital environment. We built it for anyone who wants to go beyond basic limits and create a truly personalized focus system.

Advanced Features for Unbreakable Focus

We understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work. That's why our app offers a variety of powerful blocking methods tailored to your specific needs.

Flexible Scheduling: Don't just set daily limits. Create custom schedules to block specific apps during work hours, on weekends, or whenever you need to focus. Block your email app after 6 PM or social media during your 9-to-5.
Usage Limits: Set a total usage time for distracting apps. Once you hit your limit for the day—whether it's 30 minutes or an hour—the apps are blocked, helping you stick to your goals.
Instant Focus Sessions: Need to get something done right now? Start a one-time Focus Session. Select the apps you want to block and a duration, and our app will ensure you stay on track without any interruptions.

Unique Blocking Options to Keep You Accountable

Sometimes, a simple timer isn't enough. Our app includes innovative block options that make it harder to cheat, forcing you to be more intentional with your time.

Block Until QR Code Scan: Place a QR code in another room. To unblock your apps, you have to physically get up and scan it. This simple action breaks the cycle of mindless app-opening.
Block Until NFC Tag Scan: Similar to the QR code, tap your phone to an NFC tag to regain access. You can stick a tag on your water bottle, your journal, or anywhere that encourages a positive habit.
Locked-In Blocks: Choose to lock apps until a specific time, for a set duration, or even until you manually approve access later. This removes the temptation to "just check for a minute."
Productive Unlocks: Set a condition where you can only unblock distracting apps after spending a certain amount of time in "productive" apps, like a language-learning or reading app.

Ready to Reclaim Your Focus?

Stop letting your phone control you. With the right tools, you can transform your device from a source of distraction into a tool for productivity and intention. While iPhone's built-in features are a good start, our app provides the power, flexibility, and accountability you need to build lasting digital habits. Download our app today and discover what you can achieve without digital distractions.

How to Block Apps on iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

This guide gives you clear, up-to-date steps for blocking any app on iPhone and iPad in 2025. You’ll learn exactly how to limit apps using both built-in iOS features and advanced third-party app options - so you can focus and control your device, starting today.