Screen Time shows how much time an account spends in apps and websites, then lets you set app limits, downtime, content restrictions, and family controls. It can sync with iPhone and iPad through the same Apple Account.
Screen Time is available on macOS Catalina and later. Family controls require Family Sharing for the child account.
Does This Affect You?
Use Screen Time if you want a usage report for yourself or controls for a child’s Mac and other Apple devices.
Turn On Screen Time and View Usage
- Open System Settings > Screen Time.
- Click Turn On if it is not already enabled.
- Use the Mac normally for a while so Screen Time can collect data.
- Return to Screen Time to view app categories, usage time, pickups, and notifications.
- Open App & Website Activity for daily and weekly detail.
Set App Limits and Downtime
- Open Screen Time and choose App Limits.
- Click Add Limit.
- Choose an app, website, or category.
- Set a daily limit and save it.
- Use Downtime to schedule hours when only allowed apps remain available.
Set Up Screen Time for a Child
- Make sure the child is in your Family Sharing group.
- Open System Settings > Screen Time.
- Select the child from the family switcher if shown.
- Set App Limits and Downtime for that account.
- Open Content & Privacy to restrict explicit content, purchases, app installs, app deletions, or specific Apple apps.
- Set a Screen Time passcode that is different from the child’s login password.
Screen Time Notes
Use a Passcode
Without a Screen Time passcode, limits can often be changed or turned off from the account. A passcode protects the settings.
Limits Sync by Apple Account
Screen Time data and limits can sync across Mac, iPhone, and iPad when the same Apple Account is used.
Sync Needs Connectivity
If family limits do not appear everywhere, check that iCloud is signed in, the devices are online, and they have had time to sync.
Sources
- Apple Support: Use Screen Time on your Mac
- Apple Support: Set up Screen Time for a family member
- Apple Support: Set content and privacy restrictions on Mac