brb for people who ignore Screen Time
You set the App Limit. Then you tapped Ignore Limit, or typed a passcode you invented for yourself. The setting was on. You were still in the app.
Direct answer
Block at End of Limit removes Ignore Limit for Today and asks for the Screen Time passcode after One More Minute. That helps when someone else holds the code. If you hold it, you can still clear the shield. brb keeps the lock until you hit a step goal. Strict Mode removes the casual ignore path.
This fits if
- — You dismiss your own App Limits regularly.
- — You know your Screen Time passcode and use it when the feed calls.
- — You want the unlock to cost walking, not remembering a code you set.
Skip this if
- — A parent or partner holds the Screen Time passcode and that already works.
- — Soft reminders are enough and you stop when the limit hits.
- — You need Allow Only / brick-phone focus modes more than a step rule.
Do this now
- If you still want Screen Time harder, set a passcode and turn on Block at End of Limit. Know that you can still type your own code.
- In brb, block the apps you open after Ignore Limit, turn on Strict Mode, and pick a hittable step goal.
- Remove duplicate App Limits on those apps so iOS and brb are not fighting.
- Use Emergency Unlock only when you truly need five minutes.
What Screen Time already does well
Apple Screen Time is built in. With a passcode and Block at End of Limit, the soft Ignore Limit button goes away. That design is strong for kids when a parent holds the code, or for anyone who will not type the code for themselves.
It is weak for self-control when the person who set the passcode is the person who wants Instagram. Knowing the code is the bypass.
What brb changes
brb still blocks with Apple’s Screen Time controls. The unlock rule is different. Chosen apps stay locked until Apple Health reports the daily step goal. Strict Mode closes the casual exit. Emergency Unlock is five minutes, once a day.
You are not stacking another reminder on top of Ignore Limit. You are replacing the ordinary unlock with walking.
Questions
Is brb a replacement for Screen Time?
brb uses Screen Time permission to lock and unlock apps. You still grant that permission. You usually should not keep a separate App Limit on the same apps.
Does Block at End of Limit make Screen Time enough?
It helps when someone else holds the passcode. If you hold it, you can still clear the shield. That is when a step lock fits better for many people.
What if locking acts weird after I install brb?
Overlapping App Limits or Downtime often conflict. Clear those for the apps brb owns. The docs cover conflicting Screen Time settings.
Keep going
Walk first tomorrow morning
Download brb free and let your first unlock of the day be steps — not your phone.
Download on the App Store