I’m trying to restrict access to certain apps on my iPhone running iOS 17. I need to prevent my kids from opening some apps when they borrow my phone. I know there are ways to do this but I’m not sure of the steps. Can someone guide me through it?
Really? Lock apps on iOS 17? Apple loves to brag about their security and parental control features, but when it comes down to actually giving you control over individual apps, it’s a joke. Sure, you can use Screen Time to set limits, but it’s so convoluted. Go to Settings > Screen Time > App Limits. You can set time limits for specific apps, which will lock them after the time’s up.
Of course, kids always find ways around it. They can ask for more time, and if you have Face ID set up, they might bug you until you approve it. It’s not foolproof, doesn’t even come close to the flexibility you get with third-party apps on Android.
Pros:
- Built-in; no need to install anything.
- You can limit app usage.
Cons:
- Super easy for kids to request more time.
- Not true app locking, just usage limiting.
- Apple doesn’t allow for third-party app lockers. Shocker.
It’s typical Apple. They want to “simplify” everything but end up making some features pointless unless you want to deep dive into their settings. Don’t get me started on the lack of more nuanced controls.
Totally get where you’re coming from. Screen Time does have its drawbacks, especially if you’re looking for more robust app locking solutions on iOS 17. @techchizkid made some valid points, but there are a couple of other tweaks and tricks you can try to tighten things up a bit more.
First off, beyond just setting App Limits, you can actually use the “Downtime” feature in Screen Time to restrict access to multiple apps during specific hours. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Downtime, then set the start and end times. During these hours, only apps that you’ve added to “Always Allowed” will be accessible. This way, your kids can’t use certain apps at all during those hours unless they know your Screen Time passcode.
Pros:
- Restrict access during specific hours.
- Can reinforce bedtime or study hours.
Cons:
- If your kids know the passcode, they can easily disable it.
Another method is utilizing “Guided Access,” which is more of a workaround but might serve your purpose if you need the restriction to be temporary, like when you hand your phone to your kids for a short time. Head to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access to turn it on. Once enabled, you can triple-click the home button (or side button) on your iPhone while in an app to lock the device into that app. Kids won’t be able to exit that app without your passcode.
Pros:
- Keeps the device locked to a single app.
- Great for short term control.
Cons:
- More of a manual process.
- Not practical for long-term restrictions across multiple apps.
For those tired of the convoluted built-in methods, here’s an interesting pro tip: leverage Shortcuts combined with Focus modes. In Shortcuts, you can create automation that triggers certain actions, like restricting apps when a specific Focus mode is activated.
- Go to Settings > Focus and set up a new Focus mode (e.g., “Kids Mode”).
- Allow only the essential apps.
- Open the Shortcuts app, go to Automation tab, tap the “+” button, then Create Personal Automation.
- Choose When Turning On this Focus mode, and add actions like setting a timer or disabling specific apps.
Pros:
- More granular control.
- Customizable based on your needs.
Cons:
- Requires a bit of initial setup.
- Can be more technical for some users.
Lastly, while Apple doesn’t inherently support third-party app lockers, you can still look at some parental control apps that offer more robust features than Screen Time. Apps like OurPact, Qustodio, or Kidslox can give you more stringent control over what apps your child can access. These apps often provide additional features such as location tracking, web filtering, and more comprehensive app blocking options that Apple’s native tools lack.
Pros:
- Comprehensive control features.
- Often includes additional parental control tools.
Cons:
- Might require a subscription.
- Requires installation and management of a third-party app.
In reality, you’ll need to mix and match these methods to find what works best for your situation. It’s not as seamless as the Android solutions, but it’s still possible to create a more controlled environment on your iOS device using these different strategies.
You guys have covered some great points about using Screen Time, Downtime, and Guided Access, but I think you’ve missed a trick here—especially when we’re talking about controlling access for kids. Sure, those built-in features can be a hassle and aren’t bulletproof, but what about using a combination of hardware features too?
Here’s a more unconventional method: Use an old-school pin and disable Face ID/Touch ID temporarily when you hand the phone over. Kids are savvy; no question they will bug you for the passcode, but they can’t bypass Face ID if it’s not even an option.
Pros:
- Makes it physically impossible for them to unlock certain features.
- Adds an extra layer of security without needing third-party apps.
Cons:
- Disconnects some conveniences of using Face ID/Touch ID.
- Repetitive and manual.
This isn’t foolproof but might give you some peace of mind if you’re stepping away.
Also, a key point that hasn’t been driven home enough is educating your kids on why certain apps are off-limits. I know it sounds idealistic, but if you sit down with them and explain your reasons, they might understand the boundaries better.
While third-party parental control apps like OurPact or Kidslox can be useful, they require subscription fees and monitoring which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Here’s a lesser-known feature that could also aid your mission: Family Sharing. With Family Sharing, you can set the purchase and download permissions for your kid’s own Apple ID. That can indirectly control what apps they can get their hands on, even when they’re using your phone.
If you think combining complexity with simplicity helps, here’s another tip: set Siri Shortcuts to control app access. Create a Siri Shortcut that triggers when your phone is handed to your kid. This can restrict certain apps using Focus Mode, but make it simple enough so even if your phone changes hands briefly, the restrictions kick in immediately.
Pros:
- Customizable automation.
- Reduced manual intervention once set up.
Cons:
- Initial setup can be complicated.
- Not entirely foolproof—relies heavily on how well you set it up.
In my humble opinion, relying solely on Screen Time and other built-in features is a half-measure; they’re not enough by themselves, but they’re good foundations. Mixing multiple strategies seems the best way to go.