What AppBlock can and cannot block on iPhone
AppBlock uses Apple’s Screen Time framework to block apps and websites on iPhone. This means some things are possible, and some aren’t — not because of AppBlock, but because of how iOS works.
What AppBlock can block
- Apps — any app installed on your device, including social media, games, and browsers.
- Websites — domains and keywords in Safari and most major browsers.
- App categories — block entire categories like Social or Games.
- New app installations — AppBlock can hide the App Store via Strict Mode.
- Settings and Screen Time — via Shortcuts (iOS 17 and earlier; limited on iOS 18+).
What AppBlock cannot block
- Phone calls and SMS — Apple does not allow third-party apps to block the Phone or Messages app.
- In-app content like Reels or Shorts — AppBlock blocks the app entirely, not specific features inside it.
- Browsing in apps with built-in browsers — these use in-app browsers that bypass website blocking.
- Settings on iOS 26+ — Apple’s Shortcuts-based method no longer works reliably.
- Screen Time settings directly — Apple restricts this for third-party apps.
A note on iOS limitations
AppBlock works within what Apple allows for third-party apps. When Apple changes their APIs or restrictions, some features may stop working or behave differently. We update AppBlock to match new possibilities as quickly as we can.
