Where Does Screen Time Store Data on Apple Devices?
Screen Time local cache on macOS and iOS, plus iCloud sync for family limits.
Last updated
Screen Time keeps usage indexes locally and syncs limits through iCloud when family sharing is on. Reports rebuild from device activity, not from a document you can open.
There is no exportable database to copy by hand. Moving devices means iCloud backup plus the same Apple ID. Clearing local cache resets reports but keeps Downtime rules from Cloud.
Where Screen Time stores this, by platform
~/Library/Application Support/com.apple.ScreenTime/
Local agent cache and reports. Limits sync via Apple ID (Screen Time in System Settings). Exact subfolder may vary by version. Use iCloud backup for migration, not manual copies.
Settings/Screen Time/
No Files path; data lives in the encrypted app container plus iCloud. Family limits follow the organizer Apple ID. Keep Share Across Devices on during moves.
Frequently asked questions
How do I move Screen Time limits to a new iPhone?
Restore from iCloud with the same Apple ID and keep Share Across Devices on. Limits arrive with the account, while old usage graphs start fresh. Check Family controls after restore.
Can I read Screen Time data as files?
Not usefully. Local caches are indexed stores for reports. Passcode protected limits live in Cloud family settings. Use the Settings screens instead of browsing folders.
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