How to block Screen Time on iOS16 (and older) with AppBlock

Blocking Settings on devices with iOS16 and older:

  1. Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone. This native iOS app allows you to create a sequence of actions from different apps that can be triggered with a single tap.
  2. Tap on ‘Automation’, then ‘Create Personal Automation’.
  3. Select ‘App’, choose the application you wish to block (like Settings), and confirm.
  4. Once selected, make sure ‘Is Closed’ is marked, choose “Run Inmidiately” and confirm your choice tapping on Next.
  5. Proceed to tap on ‘Scripting’, and then ‘Open App’.
  6. In the ‘Open App’ window, tap on ‘App’, and select ‘Shortcuts’.
  7. Turn off ‘Ask Before Running’, and confirm ‘Don’t Ask’ in the pop-up.
  8. Hit ‘Done’ to save your automation.
  9. Head over to the AppBlock app, add the Shortcuts app to your blocklist, and activate the blocking.
  10. Go to settings > Screen Time > When you try to turn off the Screen Time permissions for AppBlock, the Shortcut will navigate you to the blocking screen.

Voluntary step: Activate Strict Mode in AppBlock. This ensures that the blocking remains active, eliminating any chance of bypassing it.

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