Why can’t I block my device settings?
❗Is it possible to block Settings directly?
Blocking device settings directly is not technically possible on iOS. Apple does not allow any third-party app to fully block access to system settings.
🔄 Workaround using Shortcuts (iOS 16–18)
On iOS 16, 17, and 18, you can still limit access to Settings using Apple’s Shortcuts automation as a workaround.
For detailed instructions on how to do this, please refer to the following guides:
- How to Block Settings on iOS 16 and older with AppBlock
- How to Block Settings on iOS 17 with AppBlock
- How to Block Settings on iOS 18 with AppBlock
These guides will walk you through the steps to block settings effectively using Shortcuts on your device.
On iOS 16 and 17 you can also block only Screen Time permissions with Shortcuts:
- How to Block Screen Time on iOS 16 and older with AppBlock
- How to Block Screen Time on iOS 17 with AppBlock
We understand that blocking access to device settings can be important for staying focused and avoiding distractions. Let’s clarify what’s possible on iOS and how to approach it.
⚠️ Important change in iOS 26
Starting with iOS 26, Apple introduced changes that make Shortcuts-based blocking no longer effective for blocking device settings.
This means:
- The previous workaround using Shortcuts does not work reliably anymore
- There is currently no alternative method to block Settings on iOS 26
This is a system-level limitation, and unfortunately, it’s outside of AppBlock’s control.
⏳ What’s next?
We’re continuously monitoring changes in iOS and exploring any new possibilities. If Apple introduces new ways to manage access to system settings, we’ll make sure to support them.
