How to Turn Off Screen Time Completely on iOS 12

Apple introduced Screen Time in iOS 12 to help users track device usage, manage app limits, and schedule downtime. However, if you prefer not to have your activity monitored, or if you want to eliminate the notifications and background tracking associated with the feature, you can disable it entirely. This guide walks you through the exact steps required to turn off Screen Time tracking completely on any iPhone or iPad running iOS 12.

Steps to Turn Off Screen Time in iOS 12

  1. Open Settings: Launch the Settings app from your home screen.
  2. Select Screen Time: Scroll down and tap on Screen Time (indicated by an hourglass icon).
  3. Scroll to the Bottom: Swipe all the way down to the bottom of the Screen Time menu.
  4. Tap Turn Off Screen Time: Tap the red text that reads Turn Off Screen Time.
  5. Enter Passcode (If Prompted): If you set up a Screen Time passcode previously, enter the four-digit code to proceed.
  6. Confirm Deactivation: Tap Turn Off Screen Time again in the confirmation pop-up that appears at the bottom of the screen.

What Happens When Screen Time Is Disabled

Disabling Screen Time immediately ceases all device monitoring and applies the following changes:

  • Tracking Stops: The system stops logging app usage, device pickups, and notification counts.
  • Data Is Removed: All recorded weekly and daily usage statistics are permanently erased from the device.
  • Restrictions Are Lifted: Any active Downtime schedules, App Limits, and Content & Privacy Restrictions are disabled.
  • Cross-Device Sync Ceases: If you enabled "Share Across Devices," this device will no longer report its usage to your iCloud account.

If you ever wish to re-enable the feature, navigate back to Settings > Screen Time, tap Turn On Screen Time, and follow the on-screen prompts to set it up again.