Apple's strict security policies don't allow third-party apps like Bark to monitor iOS devices directly. The Bark Sync is Bark's best solution: a 2-in-1 charger and analyzer that automatically scans your child's device for potential issues whenever they plug in to charge.
Once set up, you'll get alerts if we find issues in texts, iMessages, photos, videos, WhatsApp messages, and more. Note that alerts are not real-time — Bark scans back through content from when your child was away. You'll also be notified if the Bark Sync loses its Wi-Fi connection or runs into any issue that prevents it from scanning.
Bark Sync Setup
Plug your Bark Sync into any outlet within range of your Wi-Fi network.
🛑 Hold off on plugging your child's iOS device into the Bark Sync for now. We'll let you know when it's time.
On your child's iPhone or iPad, install the
Bark Kids app.
Set aside your child's device for now.
Open up your parent app / dashboard.
Tap
Account > Device codes.
On your child's device, enter the device code.
Allow all permissions.
When asked about location, tap Always Allow or Allow While Using App.
When asked about a VPN, tap Allow. You may be asked to enter your child's lock screen passcode.
In the Bark Kids app, tap Sync > Add Bark Sync. and follow the on-screen instructions.
During setup you'll be asked to:
Plug your child's iOS device into the Bark Sync with the provided charging cable.
Allow local network permissions when prompted.
Connect the Bark Sync to a Wi-Fi network.
Enter your child's lock screen passcode twice — once to trust Bark Sync, and once to enable automatic scans whenever the device is plugged in.
Start an initial scan. The first scan covers the last 60 days of texts, photos, and videos, so it may take a while depending on how much content is on the device.
While the scan is in progress, go into the Settings app of your child's device to set up Safari monitoring and location tracking.
Use Apple's Screen Time to prevent the app from being deleted.
When you're done, open up your parent app/dashboard to set routines for blocking or allowing apps, review alerts, and more.
Repeat these steps for your other children's iOS devices.
Kids use a shared iPad?
Create a child profile named "Shared" (or something similar) to set up that device.
Kids have other non-Apple devices?
Get them connected!
Best practices
Talk to your child about why plugging into the Bark Sync to charge is important. Here are tips for that conversation.
Make sure the Bark Sync is connected to Wi-Fi when your child plugs in their device. Check its status in your parent app or dashboard or in Bark Kids app > Sync. You can also check the LED lights on the Sync.
If your child is traveling, they can connect the Bark Sync to a new Wi-Fi network by plugging in their device, opening Bark Kids app > Settings, and selecting the new network.
To check the last time Bark scanned your child's device, open your parent app or dashboard, tap your child's name, and tap Devices.
Reviewing alerts
If Bark detects bullying, sexual content, depression, self-harm, or other concerning content, we'll send you a notification. Learn more about how Bark's content monitoring works.
Need to add more accounts?
You can add unlimited email accounts, social media accounts, and devices. Follow this guide to connect the rest of your children's accounts and devices.
Need help?
Check out our iOS troubleshooting guide.