ScreenTime not tracking/blocking FaceTime

Same here and I’ve gone back years on these forums and Apple has given no real guidance that actually applies to the issue. The problem occurs when the user bypasses the actual FaceTime app by going into their Messages instead. They then click on the contact’s info and select FaceTime from there. For some reason (bug) the iOS does not track this usage since the call was not initiated through the FaceTime app…it was initiated through the Messages app. Subsequently, these minutes do not show up in the Messages screen time usage either. Teenagers around the world know this and Apple continues to ignore it.

I am facing the same issue. It looks like when FaceTime is running in the background, it’s not getting counted in the screen time. My daughter is talking to her friends on FaceTime while playing Minecraft. I have set 20 min cap for FaceTime in screen time and much longer for Minecraft. But it’s not logging FaceTime time when she’s on Minecraft.

Is there an actual solution to this? Apple has been less than helpful in attempting to debug and solve the issue for my families devices. The issue occurs on both my daughters iPads where they use FaceTime for hours but screen time only shows seconds of use. Even if it’s not in the background.

Hello MaMiaMimi,

Thanks for choosing the Apple Support Communities. We understand you're not able to block your child from using FaceTime using Screen Time. We have a few steps that may help ensure this feature is working properly.

1. Follow the steps located here to set up parental controls: Use parental controls on your child's iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support
2. Make sure all devices are up to date: Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
3. Set up a Screen Time passcode on your daughters device: Use Screen Time on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

We hope this helps.

Cheers!

Hello MaMiaMimi,

ScreenTime is definitely experiencing unexpected behavior. Therefore, we suggest that you reach out to Apple directly concerning this issue. They will be able to look further into this with you. Follow this link to connect with them: Get Support

Take care.