All the ways you can reduce screen time across your devices

This article was originally published on April 28, 2019 and has been updated.

Our smartphones and laptops offer endless entertainment and connection, from socializing with friends to exploring Wikipedia's vast knowledge base. However, excessive screen time negatively impacts our well-being regardless of age. Recognizing this, device manufacturers and app developers are offering solutions. This guide provides tips, tools, and apps to help manage your screen time across various devices.

Android: Harnessing Digital Wellbeing

Google's Digital Wellbeing is a free screen time management tool. While initially exclusive to Pixel phones, it's now a standard feature on most Android devices. Locate Digital Wellbeing & parental controls within your device's Settings menu.

The dashboard displays daily screen time and app usage. You can set app usage limits directly from the dashboard using the timer icon next to each app. These limits reset daily, prompting mindful app usage.

Alternatively, navigate to Settings > Apps, select an app, and choose Screen time to set daily limits.

Digital Wellbeing also includes Bedtime mode to reduce evening screen time. This feature allows scheduling start and end times, automatically dimming your screen and limiting notifications during these periods. Do Not Disturb settings allow you to customize which notifications are permitted during downtime.

iOS, iPadOS, and macOS: Utilizing Screen Time

Apple's Screen Time (available since iOS 12) offers similar functionality across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Access Screen Time through your device's Settings menu.

To limit app usage, navigate to App Limits and add limits for individual apps or categories. You can set custom limits for different days of the week.

Downtime allows you to completely restrict app access during specified periods, with exceptions for calls, messages, and certain pre-selected apps. You can customize which apps are always allowed during Downtime.

Windows: Exploring Parental Controls and Third-Party Apps

While Windows lacks built-in screen time controls for adults, parental controls offer similar functionality for children's accounts. Configure these controls through your Microsoft account online.

Third-Party App Solutions

Numerous third-party apps offer comprehensive screen time management:

• Windows: Time Boss (free, extensive options) and Cold Turkey (free website blocking, paid app blocking).
• macOS: Focus (paid, flexible options including Pomodoro mode), and SelfControl (free, website-focused).
• Cross-Platform: Freedom (paid, blocks apps and websites across multiple platforms), and FocusMe (paid, focuses on productivity and break reminders).
• Android: ZenScreen (freemium, excellent alternative to Digital Wellbeing).

These tools offer varying levels of control and features, allowing you to choose the best fit for your needs and device. Remember, consistent effort and mindful usage are crucial for successfully managing screen time.

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