Screen Time Counting App Usage While Shield Is Displayed

Question

cspeir1818 OP

Created Jul ’25

Replies 2

Boosts 1

Participants 2

Hi all,

I’m working on a Screen Time app using Managed Settings and ShieldConfiguration, and I’ve run into an issue where screen time is still being counted while the shield is shown — even when the user never interacts with the underlying app content.

This happens both when I use the default shield and when I configure a custom ShieldConfiguration with a ShieldAction. As long as the shield is visible, the time appears to count toward the app’s usage. For example, if I leave the shield up for 20 minutes, Screen Time logs it as 20 minutes of app usage — even if no content is accessed behind the shield.

Is this expected behavior? Is there a way to prevent Screen Time from counting time while the shield is shown?

Any insights or workarounds would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks, Connor

Boost

Answer 1

Quappi OP

Jul ’25

Is this expected behavior? Is there a way to prevent Screen Time from counting time while the shield is shown?

this sounds like a bug to me. Have you filed a feedback request already?

I am experiencing the same problem And I would say it’s unexpected behavior.

my feedback is tracked under FB19200003

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Answer 2

cspeir1818 OP

Jul ’25

Yes i just filed one as well FB19199843

Have you also noticed that sometimes it even adds time when swiping between apps, meaning if i swipe between apps (but not use the tracked app) it still adds a bit of time?

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