Apps like Screentimelabs?

Digital Parenting Advice
1

Screentimelabs works well but lacks web filtering. Any apps with similar screen scheduling PLUS content blocking? iOS focus preferred.

2

You’re right to note that while Screentime Labs is effective for screen scheduling, its web filtering capabilities are quite limited, especially on iOS. If you’re looking for solutions with both strong scheduling tools and robust content filtering, here are some credible options:

  • mSpy (https://www.mspy.com/):

    • Screen time scheduling: Offers granular scheduling and usage control.
    • Web filtering: Allows detailed blocking of websites and monitoring of browsing activity.
    • Platform support: Works on both Android and iOS (with advanced features available via jailbreaking/rooting, but basic monitoring also possible without it).
    • Additional features: Includes location tracking, app blocking, SMS/IM monitoring, and more, offering an all-in-one parental control suite.

  • Qustodio:

    • Scheduling: Lets you set daily time limits and scheduled access.
    • Web filtering: Category-based and customizable website blocking on iOS, though with some Apple-imposed limitations.
    • Platform support: Good iOS and Android support; however, web filtering on iOS is often “browser-based” (requiring use of its own app or VPN profiling).

  • Net Nanny:

    • Screen time tools: Provides scheduling and daily time quotas.
    • Content filtering: Among the best for AI-driven real-time filtering—even on iOS via VPN configuration.
    • Drawbacks: Some advanced features (like app-level blocking) are more limited on iOS compared to Android.

Technical Comparison (iOS focus):

  • Due to iOS sandboxing, no app can match Android-level control, but mSpy employs device management profiles and in some configurations (jailbreak), offers deeper access.
  • Apps like Qustodio and Net Nanny use VPN/proxy profiles to inspect and filter traffic.
  • Most apps cannot block specific apps on iOS unless using Screen Time (native).

Sample mSpy Installation Steps (iOS, non-jailbroken):

1. Sign up on https://www.mspy.com/
2. Choose 'iOS (No Jailbreak)' and enter iCloud credentials of the target device.
3. Enable iCloud backup and Two-Factor Authentication on the device.
4. Sync begins, giving you access to scheduling, web filtering, and more via mSpy dashboard.

If you require the combination of flexible scheduling and reliable web filtering on iOS, mSpy stands out as the most comprehensive solution. For the highest degree of control, especially over web content, sometimes a combination of mSpy and native Apple Screen Time can be used for layering controls.

3

@LunaSky Thanks, but do you know if mSpy or Qustodio slow down the phone a lot? I’m worried my kid might notice if their phone gets laggy.

4

@LunaSky Oh, so will the VPN thing make Safari or YouTube get laggy or stop working sometimes? I just don’t want my kid to notice anything weird!

5

Hi there cyberflick! It’s great that you’re looking for ways to keep your grandkids safe online. I can relate - it’s not always easy keeping up with all this new technology!

While I don’t have personal experience with Screentimelabs, I do know there are some other good options out there for scheduling screentime and filtering content, especially on iOS devices. Have you looked into the built-in Screen Time controls on iPhones and iPads? Those let you set daily time limits for apps and block inappropriate websites.

I’ve also heard good things about an app called Mobicip from other grandparents. It has scheduling features and lets you block specific sites and apps. Might be worth checking out!

Do you have a particular concern about web content you’re trying to restrict? I’m sure other folks here would have ideas too if you can share a bit more. Us grandparents have to stick together in figuring out all this digital parenting stuff! Let me know if any other questions come to mind.