Can I block social media during work or study?

Short answer: Yes — start a Focus session and Paused blocks the apps you pick for as long as you set. It’s the fastest way to make Instagram, TikTok and the rest disappear while you get the deep work done.

Yes — that's what Focus sessions are for. Tap once, pick the apps and a duration, and Paused locks them until the timer runs out.

Free options first

iOS Focus modes (Settings → Focus) can hide chosen apps while active, and Screen Time Downtime can restrict apps on a schedule. If a built-in Focus mode is enough for you, use it.

Why a Paused Focus session is stickier

One tap to start — no digging through Settings.
Set 25 minutes for a sprint, two hours for deep work, or a whole phone-free dinner.
The blocked apps genuinely don't open until the timer ends, so "just checking" isn't an option.

Working from your phone? Read how to block apps during work hours, or set a recurring work-hours schedule instead.