What is the app picker workaround? How do I choose apps on my kid's device?

There are a few times you'll need to select specific kids' apps, for example when choosing apps with no time limit or creating app limits. Unfortunately, the app picker provided by Apple is unpredictable and often broken. So, we've had to create a workaround that uses "Local Network" access to communicate directly from parent to kid device. (Learn more about Local Network access.)

How and when should I use the workaround?

In the Screenable app, go to your kid's settings and choose a feature that requires app selection, like the ones mentioned above.

1. If the app picker is totally blank, then just swipe down to close it and try again. This problem is often fixed by just reloading the picker.
2. If the app picker shows categories but not apps (i.e. when you try to expand categories, nothing shows within them), then tap "I'm not seeing apps" to try the workaround.
   • You will need your kid's device physically with you, as you will use it to select apps. When you're done selecting apps, it will save in your kid's profile and you won't need their device anymore.

I'm having problems with the workaround – how can I troubleshoot?

1. Ensure that the Screenable app on both the parent phone and kid device has access to the Local Network. Do this as follows on each device:
   1. Open the Settings app.
   2. Scroll down and tap Screenable.
   3. Turn "Local Network" on.
2. Make sure the parent and kid devices are close to each other, within a few feet.
3. Make sure the Screenable app is open on the kid's device.
4. Initiate the workaround as described above.
5. If that doesn't work, force-quit the kid app (here's how) and reopen it, then try again.

If none of that works, please contact us and we'll try our best to help.