Apple Screen Time vs OurPact

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.

OurPact is a parental-control app for managing children’s iPhones, iPads, Android phones, and Android tablets. It provides daily screen-time limits, schedules, and instant blocking or unblocking. Location features include live location, location history, and alerts for designated places. Content monitoring uses screenshots, OCR, AI flagging, and custom detection for harmful content. A child profile can pair with multiple devices, including a mix of iOS and Android. Paid plans cover up to 20 child devices and include device safeguards. On iOS 18 or older, tamperproofing can prevent removal without parent approval. OurPact says data is encrypted, personal information is not sold or shared, and screenshots are stored in an encrypted gallery. The Free plan is free and lists one child device, five manual blocks per month, and one automated block schedule. Premium is $6.99 per month or $69.99 billed annually; Premium+ is $9.99 per month or $99.99 billed annually. A 14-day free trial is listed.