Why your apps may not appear blocked:

Here are the most common reasons why your apps may not appear blocked after you've scanned your Locked tag.

You may still have the Apple Time Limit turned on

  • Locked won't work if you're using the Apple Time Limit, as Apple takes priority over third-party apps.

  • You'll need to open Screen Time in settings and turn off the default Apple Time Limit rules that you may have previously applied.

  • Open Settings > Screen Time > App Limits

  • Ensure you have toggled off any default Time Limits. Many users may have Time Limits for Instagram, for example.
  1. Apps should now be blocking properly, but if you're still having errors, please continue reading.

Apple only allows 50 apps/websites to be blocked per profile

  • Make sure you're only selecting up to 50 apps to block per profile. If you've selected entire categories, chances are you may have chosen over 50 apps

  • This could be another reason why you've successfully scanned your device, though the apps are still accessible.

  • Try only selecting the apps you most frequently open, and check the alert message at the bottom of the app picker to see how many apps you've selected for your profile

The app picker screen may crash when you select 'other'

  • Unfortunately, this is a known issue with Apple Developers, and we're working closely with their support team to be alerted when they've fixed this bug.

  • In the meantime, we've added a 'reload' button. So if the screen appears blank for you, simply clicking 'reload' is enough to solve this.

  • You can also type to search your apps/websites, instead of selecting them on the app picker list, as this will avoid crashing.

  • The good news is that you only need to select your apps/websites once to create your profile.

What took time to create, takes time to understand

Still need help? Fill out the contact form, or contact us at: support@nowlocked.com

App FAQ's

Is it tap to lock, or tap to unlock?

It's both; however, we also have a manual activation feature, allowing you to block apps when you're away from your Locked tag.

Even with manual locking, you'll still need your physical Locked tag to unlock your apps.

What happens if I use all of my emergency unlocks?

Once you’ve used all your emergency unlocks (you get three), the app won’t let you unlock your phone that way anymore.

In this case, you'll need to contact our support team for assistance.

Can I just delete the app?

Nice try. No, not while your phone is in Locked mode. You may only delete the app when Locked isn't activated.

Can I schedule my apps to be blocked?

Yes, rather than tapping to lock your apps daily, you also have the option to set schedules.

Note, you'll need to manually tap your Locked tag to unlock your apps.

Why not just use Apple’s Screen Time? It’s free.

Apple’s Screen Time is great in theory, but in practice, it’s too easy to turn off.

If the lock is on your phone, it’s just a few taps away from being disabled – especially when temptation hits.

Locked adds a physical layer of accountability.

You can’t unlock distractions unless you have the locked tag with you.

That extra step makes a huge difference when you’re trying to stay focused or break habits.

It’s the friction that changes behavior.

If I delete the app, can I install it again and use my old Locked tag?

Yes, you can reinstall the app any time and reuse your same Locked tag.

Locked is designed to be shared, and is not restricted to one phone per device.

Product FAQ's

Do I need to charge my Locked tag?

No. No batteries. No charging. No cables.

Just tap and go. It’s the most low-maintenance thing you’ll own, next to that succulent you forgot you had.

What happens if I lose my Locked tag?

If you don’t have your Locked tag nearby, you can sparingly use the “Emergency Unlock” feature inside the app.

To avoid abuse, you're only granted three of these, so only use them when you truly need them, not as a shortcut every time you get bored.

Why not leave your phone behind?

If this were a solution, then you wouldn't be reading this right now.

You're here because you clicked an ad on social media, or you've revisited this website as it piqued your interest.

You know phone addiction is a problem, and you're searching for solutions.

We need our phones. It's our portal to family, friends, emergency notifications, and work.

What you don't need is the distractions that come with it.

The solution isn't moving backwards and using a Nokia flip phone.

It's embracing the new-age technology that allows us to carry a map, phone, camera, and flashlight in one, but temporarily disable the non-essential noise while you go out and love your life.

Locked vs other screen time apps?

For starters, apps such as Opal charge $20/month for strict app-blocking features.

You stop paying, and you no longer have access.

Locked is a one-time payment with no monthly subscriptions.

For the price of ~3 months access to other screen time apps, you'll be able to own Locked forever with lifetime access to the app on any phone you own.

Lastly, Locked is a physical barrier. Opal, and other similar apps live on your phone.

Meaning you'll always be carrying around the 'bypass' button with you, wherever you go.

Can I pair multiple phones to the same Locked tag?

Yes, multiple phones can pair to a single Locked tag.

This is designed for families, households, couples, or even if you have a work phone.

Is Locked magnetic?

Yes, Locked comes with an industrial-grade magnet and anti-slip silicone pad, allowing you to keep it in convenient locations such as the fridge, whiteboard, or desk.

Still have a question?