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Blocking doesn't seem to be working

If apps are not being blocked by Opal when they should, follow the steps below. If you think Opal is blocking an app/website it shouldn't, go to: Opal is blocking an App/Website it shouldn't.


Step 1: Review "Always Allowed" Apps

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.

Here's where to find the Always Allowed app in your iPhone's Screen Time settings

If this doesn't fix the issue:

Step 2: Check Apps and Websites Are Selected

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:

Step 3: Check Session Is Active

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 this doesn't fix the issue:

Step 4: Close and Open the Opal App

Occasionally; Screen Time settings may get stuck which could result is blocking not working. 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:

Step 5: Reset Screen Time Connection

If none of the above work, you can try to rest Opal's connection to Screen Time. To do this:

  • In the Opal app, open Settings (tap your gem name)
  • Go to Help Center
  • Tap Troubleshooting
  • Tap 'Reset my Screen Time Connection"
  • Wait for a few seconds, you will get a confirmation message once the reset is complete.

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.

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