Roots: Screen Time Control

Apples screen time limiter is terrible and easy to blow past the limits, this is far better. The problem is the pricing strategy, it’s $10 / month or $60 / year. I understand when apps need to be subscription based because of added content / high server cost, this app has neither. There is no reason why this one can’t cost $20 with perhaps a minimal recurring fee. We might have a screen addition but these guys should consider something for their own subscription addiction.

This is exactly the app I was looking for! Apple has done a great job at collecting all the data on how much time we mindlessness spend on our phones, but fails to provide an interface to understand the data and make it actionable. This app SOLVES that problem!! And I’m sure it only scratches the surface and can’t wait to new features. Nicely done.

This is a pretty wild privacy policy for an app blocker. You can have my money or my personal data, but not both.

I use Roots every day— It’s the first time I’ve successfully limited my social media time, and I like the option to set multiple rules. It preemptively helps me prioritize where I’ll spend my time, and has helped me stop scrolling during insomnia spells.

So far it’s been useful, helps me check social media way less and hopefully will help forgetting to pick up the phone first thing when I am bored or anxious. The one annoying thing is that you have to reload the downtime session every day or they won’t start

Roots has been a massive help keeping me present with my daughter. Setting downtime when she gets home from school was a meaningful unlock.

I like that Roots provides many different metrics to track your progress, kind of like a choose-your-own adventure for how you want to improve your life. Whether it's caring for my tree, or watching my digital dopamine hits, I'm making progress towards my goals and it doesn't feel like work.

Since I started using Roots, I feel like a more patient and present parent. Before, I found myself constantly distracted and endlessly scrolling, but now, with the app's gentle reminders and enforced breaks, I'm more engaged in my kids' activities and conversations. We've rediscovered the joy of playing board games, going for walks, and simply talking without the interruption of screens. This app has truly transformed our family dynamic, allowing us to connect on a deeper level.

Roots has been a game changer for me! As a stay at home mom, sometimes I struggle to prioritize my screen time especially during the morning when it’s easy to pop on a show for my toddler. Not only has Roots help hold me accountable for the amount of time I spend on my phone, it in turn has helped me limit screen time with my toddler now that I am more aware. It has helped get us outside more and I’m so thankful for that! Highly recommend.

Outstanding way to process and manage your time on devices.