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LockHour Pro vs iOS Screen Time App Limits for Blocking Distractions (2026)

iOS Screen Time has built-in App Limits that can block apps. LockHour Pro also uses Screen Time under the hood, but adds a simplified interface for starting focused work sessions. Here's how they compare.

FeatureLockHour ProBuilt-in iOS
Session-based blocking✅ Start a timed session with one tap⚠️ Daily limits, not per-session
Ease of setup✅ Simple: pick apps, set time, tap Start⚠️ Multiple settings menus in Screen Time
Pomodoro / timer support✅ Built-in session timer with notification❌ No built-in session timer
Bypass difficulty⚠️ Still bypassed with Screen Time passcode⚠️ Same — it IS Screen Time
Cost✅ One-time purchase✅ Free (built into iOS)
Widget / quick start✅ Designed for quick daily session starts⚠️ Requires navigating Settings > Screen Time
Verdict: LockHour Pro builds on iOS Screen Time to give you a session-based focus workflow. If you already understand Screen Time and are comfortable setting it up yourself, the built-in controls work. LockHour Pro is better if you want a simpler, one-tap way to start a timed focus session without navigating Settings.
Download LockHour Pro on the App Store →

Questions & Answers

Does LockHour Pro use iOS Screen Time?

Yes. LockHour Pro leverages iOS Screen Time's App Limits feature to block apps. This is why you need to enable Screen Time for it to work.

Can I bypass LockHour Pro during a session?

If you know the Screen Time passcode, you can bypass it. The effectiveness depends on whether you're willing to maintain that friction — many users have someone else set the passcode.

What's the difference between Screen Time App Limits and LockHour Pro?

Screen Time App Limits are daily caps. LockHour Pro creates per-session blocks — you start a focused work session of a specific duration, and apps are blocked for that window only.

Does LockHour Pro work on iPad?

Yes. LockHour Pro works on both iPhone and iPad.