How to Set Always Allowed Apps in iOS 12 Screen Time

Apple introduced Screen Time in iOS 12, allowing users to monitor device usage, establish app limits, and schedule downtime. A key component of this feature is the ability to configure "Always Allowed" apps, which remain accessible even when limits or scheduled downtimes are active. This guide provides a straightforward explanation of how the feature works and step-by-step instructions to configure it on any iPhone or iPad running iOS 12.

Yes, you can configure Always Allowed apps in iOS 12. By default, the Phone app is permanently allowed for safety and emergency reasons, while Messages, FaceTime, and Maps are pre-selected but can be removed. Any third-party app installed on your device can also be added to this list.

How to Configure Always Allowed Apps in iOS 12

1. Open the Settings app on your iOS 12 device.
2. Scroll down and tap Screen Time.
3. If Screen Time is not already active, tap Turn On Screen Time and follow the prompts.
4. Tap Always Allowed.
5. If prompted, enter your Screen Time passcode.
6. Under the Allowed Apps section, review the apps currently permitted during downtime.
7. To remove an app, tap the red minus (-) icon next to it and tap Remove.
8. To add an app, scroll down to the Choose Apps section and tap the green plus (+) icon next to any app you want to keep accessible.

Once selected, apps moved to the "Allowed Apps" section will bypass all Downtime schedules and daily App Limits. This ensures essential communication tools, navigation utilities, or work-related applications remain functional at all times without disabling Screen Time entirely.