Screen Time Limit Bug With iOS 26.2

Learn how to resolve the Screen Time limit bug introduced in iOS 26.2

The Screen Time Limit Bug

Starting with iOS 26.2, there's a new bug affecting Apple Screen Time. On your device's first pickup, all app limits might activate prematurely, even if you haven't used any apps or websites. This issue occurs sporadically and unpredictably.

How To Fix (If You Use Apple Screen Time)

There's no permanent solution until Apple resolves this issue. For now, you can apply these temporary fixes:

Option 1: Disable App Limits, wait about 3 seconds, then re-enable them
Option 2: Restart your device
Option 3: Delete your existing App Limit settings, then recreate them exactly as before

These methods "reset" Screen Time, forcing it to recalculate your limits. You will need to repeat these steps if the issue recurs on subsequent days.

How to Fix (If You Use a Third-Party App)

Third-party apps, such as Refocus, are also impacted since they rely on Apple's Screen Time technology. Each app may offer its own workaround.

For Refocus users:

Open Refocus Settings (gear icon at the top-right corner)
Tap Advanced Settings
Tap Fix App Blocking

This refreshes the limits, temporarily resolving the issue for that day. Refocus is actively exploring more streamlined ways to help you manage this issue.

How You Can Help

If you're an Apple beta tester or developer, submit feedback via feedbackassistant.apple.com under Developer Technologies & SDKs > iOS > Device Activity Framework > Events. Reference the feedback number Refocus provided: FB21267341.

Alternatively, you can contact Apple Support and mention feedback number FB21267341. This may help expedite the fix.