If apps/websites are not being blocked by Opal when they should, or the contrary, follow the steps below.
Please note: if you have a personal relationship with engineers at Apple and enjoy Opal, we’d love to connect with them on this list of issues we are facing with Screen Time API and why they matter.
Occasionally, Screen Time settings may get stuck which could result is blocking not working for all apps/websites. It can show up in a few ways. For example:
I am in a session but nothing is blocked
I am not in a session but my apps are still blocked
I am taking a break but my apps are still blocked
If you have an active session running, you should see a warning message in the session with troubleshooting steps:
Regardless, here is how to fix the issue:
Force close the Opal app and open it again to reset the connection.
Close an app on your iPhone or iPod touch - Apple Support
If this doesn't fix the issue:
Turn your device off and on again.
Restart your iPhone - Apple Support
If this doesn't fix the issue:
If you are in an active Opal session, turn this session off by tapping "Leave Early", and restart the session.
If this doesn't fix the issue:
If none of the above work, you can try to rest Opal's connection to Screen Time. To do this:
Please note: unfortunately, resetting your screen time connection will mean you may lose your focus score data history, available on the home page and score page. This is due to the fact that this data is private, and only available through Screen Time connection. Opal does not store this data anywhere. However, all other information, including your sessions, milestones, and profile information will be saved.
If all of this doesn’t help:
If none of the above work, you can try giving Screen Time permissions on a different app.
Occasionally, one or a few apps/websites you have selected will not be blocked. For example:
I am in a session blocking Linkedin and Instagram, Linkedin is blocked but Instagram is not blocked.
Here is what to do about it:
Your iPhone Screen Time settings has an "Always Allowed" list of apps, which is generated automatically by Apple. Apps that are in the "always allowed" category will always be allowed, and supersede any restrictions Opal puts in place.
Start by making sure apps you want to block are not in the "Always Allowed" category of your iPhone's Screen Time settings. Go to your iPhone's Settings => Screen Time.
We recommend keeping apps you deem essential, such as Messages or Camera, in the "Always Allowed" category.
If this doesn't fix the issue:
Let's make sure that the apps and websites you are testing are selected in the list for Opal to block, you can do this by following these steps.
If this doesn't fix the issue:
Let's make sure that the Session is currently active to block the apps and websites you want. Open the Opal app, and open the Active Session to check.
Please note: you cannot have two overlapping sessions. If a Session is scheduled to overlap, the first one to start will be active, and the other will not.
If Opal is blocking an app/website when it shouldn't, follow the steps here.
That's it! If you problem is still not resolved, please send us a report in the Opal app. Read how to contact Opal, report a bug or give feedback on Opal here.
With a combination of app restrictions, real time feedback and rewards, you can begin to focus better and accomplish your dreams.