Sandflow vs Apple Screen Time
Sandflow vs Apple Screen Time: Real-Time Tracking vs Reports
Compare Sandflow with Apple Screen Time and learn why real-time app usage tracking helps iPhone users notice distracting sessions sooner.
Apple Screen Time: reports and limits
Sandflow: live timer for selected apps
Use both for better awareness
Why Sandflow exists
Phone habits usually do not change because someone sees one more dashboard. They change when the habit becomes visible at the right moment. Sandflow is designed around that moment: the first few minutes after opening an app, before a quick check becomes a long session.
Instead of trying to shame you or block every app, Sandflow gives you a clear signal. You choose which apps matter, connect them with Apple Shortcuts, and then use the timer as a practical cue for more conscious phone use.
Apple Screen Time is the baseline
Apple Screen Time gives official daily and weekly reports, app categories, downtime, and app limits. It is useful for understanding your overall device behavior.
Sandflow focuses on the moment of use
Sandflow adds a live timer for selected apps so you can notice a session while it is still happening, using Shortcuts, Dynamic Island, Live Activities, and widgets.
The best setup is complementary
Use Apple Screen Time for broad reporting and limits. Use Sandflow for real-time awareness in the apps where you lose the most time.
Common questions
Why does Sandflow need Shortcuts?
iOS privacy rules prevent apps from silently tracking every app open. Shortcuts automations let you choose what Sandflow can time.
Should I turn off Apple Screen Time?
No. Sandflow is designed to complement Apple Screen Time, not replace it.
Make distracting app time visible
Sandflow helps you notice the session while there is still time to change it.
Download on the App Store