(Answered) Does Screen Time Count Apps Running in the Background?

by J. Robertson Macaulay D. Young Updated On Jun 5, 2024 Published On May 8, 2023 Basic iPhone Tips Ideal for Newbies

If you are using Screen Time to limit iPhone usage, you may be wondering to what extent the feature can be used. One of the most common questions is whether Screen Time can monitor apps running in the background. In this article, we will answer this question.

Does Screen Time Count Apps Running in the Background?

No.

Screen Time does not count apps that are running in the background and it specifically tracks the apps that are currently visible on your device's screen, hence the term "screen" time.

As technology advances, phones are becoming increasingly sophisticated, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously on the same screen. In the past, users were only able to play music or watch YouTube videos while browsing the internet. However, as phones continue to evolve, they are likely to become more like laptops in terms of computing power and multitasking capabilities, enabling users to run a multitude of apps on the same screen simultaneously.

How Screen Time Works

Screen Time is a feature that Apple introduced to help users determine how much they are using their devices. It shows the period that the screen has been active throughout the day and the apps that were used the most.

It is a great way to set limits on app usage. For example, you might use this feature to keep yourself from spending too much time on social media. This is made easy by the ability to set limits on certain apps, schedule downtime, and whitelist some apps that will not be disabled during the downtime.

When the limit for a certain app is reached, Screen Time prompts the user to enter a password if they want to continue using the device.

How to Turn on Screen Time on iPhone and iPad

For Your Own iPhone:

  1. Go to the Settings app on your device.
  2. Tap on "Screen Time."
  3. Tap "App & Website Activity," then select "Turn On App & Website Activity."

Once Screen Time is enabled, you'll get a report showing how you use your device, apps, and websites.

For Child's Device:

  1. Go to the Settings app on your child's device.
  2. Tap on "Screen Time."
  3. Tap "Turn On Screen Time," then tap it again.
  4. Choose "This is My Child's [Device]."
  5. Set a Passcode:
    • Tap "Use Screen Time Passcode" to create a passcode.
    • Re-enter the passcode to confirm.
    • After confirming, enter your Apple ID and password. This will allow you to reset the passcode if you forget it.
  6. Content & Privacy Restrictions:
    • Tap "Content & Privacy Restrictions."
    • If prompted, enter your passcode.
    • Turn on "Content & Privacy Restrictions."

By following these steps, you can effectively manage your child's device usage and ensure they stay within healthy screen time limits. You can also use Family Sharing to set up and manage your child's device from your own device. With Family Sharing, you can see reports and adjust settings for your child's device from your own device.

How to Turn on Screen Time on iPhone and iPad

How to Turn Off Screen Time on iPhone and iPad

Turn Off Screen Time with Password

If you know the passcode and you are looking to disable the Screen Time feature on your iPhone or iPad, the following steps should help:

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your device.

Step 2: Tap on the "Screen Time" option.

Tap on the

Step 3: To disable it, tap "Turn off Screen Time."

tap

Step 4: When prompted, enter the passcode.

enter the passcode

Step 5: Tap "Turn Off Screen Time" again.

Turn Off Screen Time

Now the Screen Time is turned off on your device.

 the Screen Time is turned off

Turn Off Screen Time without Passcode

If you're looking for a simple and effective way to bypass screen time on your iPhone or iPad, Unlockit iPhone is a great option to consider. This program is easy to use and can quickly remove the screen time passcode without any complications.

What's more, it is compatible with all common iPhone and iPad devices, including the latest iPhone 15 and iOS 17. To use this program to turn off iPhone screen time without passcode, follow the steps listed below.

Step 1: Download and install Unlockit iPhone on your computer

Step 2: Open it and on the main window, click on "Remove Screen Time Passcode."

Step 3: Connect the iPhone or iPad to the computer and click "Start" to begin bypassing Screen Time.

Step 4: Then wait for Unlockit iPhone to do its thing.

start removing your device's screen time passcode

Conclusion

The Screen Time feature is one way to make sure that you are not spending too much time staring at your iPhone's screen all day. From this guide, you should know that Screen Time won't count the apps that are running in the backgroung. But as useful as it can be, you may want to disable it if you are concerned that it is tracking too much data on your device. Here, we've shared with you ways to turn on or off Screen Time.

J. Robertson Macaulay D. Young

Mako is a technical writer with a passion for all things tech. Whether you're wondering about how to fix your iPhone or Android device or trying to get something to work in your settings, Mako is your go-to for professional help. He loves writing, testing solutions, and most of all, making sure his research is factually accurate.

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