To block apps on iPhone, choose the apps first, then decide whether you want a daily allowance or a protected time window. Apple Screen Time provides both. Bouncer adds three Levels that define what happens when you want access during a block.
Start with the boundary you need
Write one sentence before changing a setting: “No feeds while I work in the morning,” or “A daily allowance for social apps.” These are different needs. A morning work session needs a schedule; an allowance needs a daily limit. Pick the apps that interrupt that context, rather than blocking every app you use.
Keep essential tools outside the selection. If you need a messaging app for work, blocking it can make the whole rule impractical. You can protect a smaller group of distracting apps and still use your phone for a clear purpose.
Use the built-in Screen Time settings
In Settings → Screen Time, Apple provides App Limits for a daily allowance and Downtime for a schedule. App Limits can apply to individual apps or categories. For a firmer Downtime boundary, Apple documents a Screen Time passcode and the Block at Downtime option. Check Apple’s instructions for your iOS version in the source below.
Set a Rule in Bouncer
- Authorize Screen Time when Bouncer asks.
- Choose a preset or create a custom Rule, then select apps in Apple’s app picker.
- Choose a scheduled window or a daily limit. For a schedule, choose the start, end and days.
- Choose Normal, High or Lockdown. Lockdown requires a scheduled window.
- Activate the Rule. Check that the selection and protected hours match your intention.
Know how temporary access works
When a selected app is blocked, its shield does not contain an unblock action. Open Bouncer to request access. Normal adds a short variable wait. High increases the wait and reduces the available session length after successful unblocks. Temporary sessions use 5, 10 or 15 wall-clock minutes; High may offer fewer options.
Lockdown works differently: the scheduled window stays fixed while active, with a limited local Emergency Pass. Learn the exit conditions before choosing it. All blocking depends on Apple system services; this is not a guarantee that every possible workaround is prevented.
Review one real day
Check whether the Rule covered the moment you meant to protect. If it blocked a useful tool, adjust the selection when changes are available. Compare your time in the selected apps with your own intention. A useful call or planned message is not a failed day.
Sources
Sources checked on 5 September 2026. External features and offers can change.
A boundary you choose.
Start with a context you want to protect on your iPhone.
