TikTok is a popular platform where you can watch entertaining videos, memes, and more. However, if you find yourself spending too much time on the app, especially if you have ADHD, it’s important to find ways to limit your usage. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to block TikTok on your iPhone using various methods.
Method 1: Downtime Feature
You can utilize the Downtime feature on your iPhone to manage your TikTok usage effectively. Although it won’t completely block the app, it can help you control your time spent on it. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Go to Screen Time
First, access the Screen Time panel in your iPhone’s Settings. This page provides an overview of your app usage and highlights your most frequently used apps. This breakdown is useful in reminding you to limit your time on TikTok.
Step 2: Adjust Always Allowed Apps
In the Screen Time panel, you’ll find several features, including Downtime, App Limits, Always Allowed, and Content & Privacy Restrictions. To block TikTok, ensure that it is not listed under your Always Allowed apps. If it is, simply tap on TikTok and remove it from the list.
Step 3: Enable Downtime
By enabling the Downtime feature, you gain control over your schedule away from your iPhone. This allows you to determine when you can access TikTok and other apps on your device.
Step 4: Schedule Downtime
Set up your Downtime schedule according to your preferences. You can choose to have Downtime every day or only on specific days of the week. Once your Downtime schedule is set, you won’t have access to most of your apps during that time, except for phone calls and the apps you have designated as Always Allowed.
Method 2: App Limits Configuration
Another way to limit your TikTok usage is through the App Limits feature. This method allows you to block specific app categories while still having access to other apps on your iPhone. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Access Screen Time
Navigate to the Screen Time panel in your iPhone’s Settings.
Step 2: Set App Limits
Under the Screen Time panel, tap on App Limits. This feature allows you to manage your time for specific app categories.
Step 3: Configure the Limit
Press Add Limit to set a specific time limit for TikTok and other apps within the same category. Choose the Social Networking category or All Apps & Categories option to block TikTok. The Social Networking category restricts your time on social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.
Step 4: Customize Usage
Once you have selected the app category, you can customize your daily usage and choose how frequently this limit will be in effect.
Method 3: iTunes & App Store Purchases
If you prefer a method that involves modifying your iTunes & App Store Purchases settings, follow these steps. Please note that this method requires you to delete the TikTok app:
Step 1: Go to Screen Time
After deleting TikTok, access the Screen Time panel in your iPhone’s Settings.
Step 2: Enable Content & Privacy Restrictions
Tap on Content & Privacy Restrictions, located below the Always Allowed option.
Step 3: Modify iTunes & App Store Purchases
Enable Content & Privacy Restrictions and navigate to iTunes & App Store Purchases.
Step 4: Block Installing Apps
Under the Store Purchases & Redownloads section, tap on Installing Apps. Select the option “Don’t Allow” to prevent yourself from downloading and reinstalling TikTok.
Method 4: Content Restrictions
If you still want the ability to download new apps from the App Store while blocking TikTok, you can use Content Restrictions. This method will hide the app from your home screen. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to Screen Time
Open your iPhone’s Settings and tap on Screen Time.
Step 2: Access Content & Privacy Restrictions
Tap on Content & Privacy Restrictions and enable the feature.
Step 3: Configure Content Restrictions
Under the Content & Privacy Restrictions menu, tap on Content Restrictions. This option is located below Allowed Apps.
Step 4: Hide TikTok
Within the Apps settings, modify the age restriction to 9+ or select “Don’t Allow Apps.” By doing so, TikTok will be hidden from your home screen and other apps with the same age restriction will also be hidden.
Conclusion
TikTok can be addictive, so it’s important to find ways to limit your usage if it’s affecting your daily life. By utilizing the features on your iPhone, such as Downtime, App Limits, and Content Restrictions, you can effectively control your TikTok usage and be more present in your life. If you need more assistance in managing your screen time, consider using apps like Opal, the #1 Screen Time App, which can help you schedule your days and block distracting apps. Say goodbye to endless scrolling and focus on better things.
