Apple Screen Time vs FocusMe

Apple Screen Time is a free parental control feature for managing a child's device use on iOS and macOS. Parents can set Downtime to block apps and notifications at selected times, limit time on apps, websites, or categories, and choose app availability schedules for weekdays and weekends. Daily Time Allowances cover categories such as entertainment, games, and social media, with age-tailored guidance. Web controls let parents allow or block specific sites and apps, and Ask to Browse supports website approval requests. Parents can manage a child's contacts in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, including requiring approval for new contacts. Content settings include age ratings and controls over changes to location and Bluetooth sharing. Communication Safety blurs detected nudity in shared photos and videos in supported apps and offers children a way to get help. Managing a child's controls through a family group requires Family Sharing and an Apple Account for each member. Redesigned parental controls require version 27 or later across the family group; some controls are available on watchOS 27.

FocusMe blocks websites and apps to help users manage distractions across desktop and mobile devices. Blocking can target websites, apps, keywords, or categories across more than 15 browsers, or use Whitelist Mode to allow only selected items. Focus plans can set daily or hourly budgets, limit launches, enforce breaks, and schedule sessions; sessions can also be locked. Protection options include password protection, random challenges, Enforced Mode, and accountability partners. Its AI Coach analyzes progress and offers insights and actions. The Android and iOS apps are free to download and include blocking, schedules, and time limits. Premium syncs plans between Windows, Mac, and iPhone; Android sync is in development. Chrome and Firefox extensions offer enhanced URL detection and faster blocking, and an Edge extension is listed. FocusMe has a free plan and a 14-day trial, with paid plans from $9.95/mo; its lifetime option costs $249, paid once. A license covers up to five Windows or macOS computers and two mobile devices.