July 17, 2025

iOS Today 761: Screen Time Controls

39 minutes

This episode explores the comprehensive Screen Time system in iOS, covering everything from basic usage tracking to advanced restrictions and parental controls. The hosts also tackle a unique automation challenge involving motorcycles and garage doors, while sharing their latest app and gadget discoveries.

Screen Time Overview - Introduction to iOS's built-in digital wellness system that tracks usage across all Apple devices and syncs settings when enabled

Screen Distance Feature - New safety feature that alerts users when holding their iPhone or iPad too close to their face, helping prevent eye strain and myopia

App and Website Activity - Detailed tracking system that provides weekly reports and insights about screen usage patterns across all connected devices

Downtime Scheduling - Feature that restricts device access to only approved apps and phone calls during specified hours, perfect for sleep schedules

App Limits - Granular controls allowing users to set daily time limits for specific apps or entire categories like games or social media

Always Allowed Apps - Designated apps that remain accessible even during downtime, including emergency contacts and essential utilities

Communication Controls - Settings that manage who can contact the user during screen time restrictions and downtime periods

Communication Safety - Apple's new feature that automatically detects and warns about potentially inappropriate images before they're viewed

Content and Privacy Restrictions - Comprehensive parental controls covering app installations, purchases, web content, and various iOS features

Feedback

Motorcycle Garage Door Automation - Mike seeks help creating a shortcut to automatically open his garage door when arriving home on his motorcycle

App Caps

DailyArt App - Mikah recommends an award-winning app that showcases a different piece of artwork each day with detailed historical context and artist information

8BitDo Micro Controller - Rosemary features a tiny Bluetooth game controller that works with multiple devices and can be reprogrammed for various uses, including Procreate shortcuts

Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard

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