How To Set Time Limits on iPhone [Updated 2025]

Learn how to set time limits on apps: a step-by-step guide using Apple Screen Time and Refocus.

Set Time Limits
Set Time Limits

There are two options to put time limits on iPhone:

  • Option 1: Use the built-in Apple Screen Time feature

  • Option 2: Install an app designed to set screen time limits; Refocus - an app to limit screen time

Option 1: Apple Screen Time

Choose this option if you want to avoid installing another application. However, you lose powerful features and flexibility.

Steps to set time limits on iPhone using Apple Screen Time:

  1. Open Apple "Settings" app

  2. Select "Screen Time"

  3. Select "App Limits"

  4. Select "Add Limit"

  5. Select the app(s) to time limit

  6. Select "Next," set the time limit, and select "Add"

Open Apple "Settings" App

Select "Screen Time"

Select "App Limits"

Select "Add Limit"

Select The App To Limit

Select "Next," Set Time Limit, And Select "Add"

The App Will Now Be Blocked After The Time Limit Is Reached

Option 2: Refocus

The best option to block websites if you are willing to install another application.

Steps to block apps on iPhone using Refocus:

  1. Install "Refocus" from the Apple App Store

  2. Open "Refocus" app

  3. Complete the onboarding steps. The onboarding will show you how to block apps!

  4. Select "Start" at the bottom

  5. Select "Set Time Limits"

  6. Press "Select Apps & Websites To Time Limit"

  7. Choose the apps to time limit (for example, you can use Refocus as an app to limit social media)

  8. Select the time limit duration (ex. 5 minutes)

  9. Press "Set Time Limit"

Install Refocus

Select "Start" At The Bottom Of The Screen

Select "Set Time Limits"

Press "Select Apps & Websites To Time Limit"

Choose The Apps To Time Limit

Select The Time Limit Duration & Press "Set Time Limit"

After The Limit Is Reached, View The Blocked App

— — —

Click here to explore the best apps to limit screen time on iPhone