Opal is built on top of the iOS Screen Time API, which allows us to access and use the data collected by Apple's built-in Screen Time feature, in a way that fully protects the privacy of your data. This data includes information on how much time is spent on different apps and websites, as well as notifications on daily Screen Time usage. By using this API, we are able to provide our customers with detailed analytics on their Screen Time habits, as well as offer additional features such as a variety of Sessions, Blocks Lists, and Allow Lists. We are also able to integrate with other iOS features such as Shortcut Automations and Focus Filters to provide even more functionality. The use of the iOS Screen Time API allows us to provide our customers with a comprehensive and personalized Screen Time management experience.

What is iOS Screen Time?

iOS Screen Time is a built-in feature on iPhone and iPad devices that allows users to track and manage their Screen Time. It provides information on how much time is spent on different apps, games, and websites, as well as notifications on daily Screen Time usage. Additionally, it offers options for setting daily time limits on apps and categories of apps, as well as allowing parents to set limits for their children's Screen Time. This feature is designed to help users understand their Screen Time habits and make changes to improve their digital well-being. Unfortunately, those restrictions are extremely easy to bypass and remove. This is where Opal excels.

Why is my iOS Settings Screen Time different from my Screen Time in Opal?

You can find and set up your Screen Time in your iPhone Settings using the instructions here. If you opt to use this feature, you may find differences between your device's listed Screen Time and the Screen Time displayed on Opal's “Home” and “Profile” tabs. Here’s why:

• Apple counts time spent on Home view as active Screen Time; Opal does not. Only Screen Time spent inside an app or on a website will be counted by Opal.
• Within Opal, you can customize apps and websites to exclude them from your Screen Time by setting them to "Neutral," using the instructions here. For apps like navigation, music, meditation, audiobook, or any other apps you consider as passive consumption, this can be very helpful. Do note that some apps/websites will be excluded by default (including Maps or Spotify); you can change this at any time.

To learn more about how Opal reports your Screen Time within the app, please head here.

How is Opal better than Screen Time settings on iOS?

Opal offers far more functionality above the current Screen Time settings on iOS. While the features that come with our free and Pro versions vary, each version includes a variety of features to help you better manage your screen time. Our features include:

• Detailed analytics on progress, including Focus Reports
• The ability to set timers to block or allow the apps and websites of your choice via Sessions‍
• A Focus Score® that allows users to rate how apps hurt or enhance focus, giving you the power to change
• The ability to invite friends to focus together
• Integration with Shortcut Automations and Focus Filters for added automation
• Rewards for reaching milestones on the journey towards better focus
• An active Community Forum board to discuss improvements, learn tips and tricks, and be social
• Responsive Customer Support

That's it! If you'd like to sign up for Opal, please head here.