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Troubleshooting the Bark Phone
Find solutions for monitoring and filtering Bark Phones.
- Troubleshoot the Bark PhoneFix issues with the Bark Phone.
- "Sorry, we can't activate the device" error when setting up Bark PhoneThis usually happens when the Bark Phone isn't connected to Wi-Fi or you're signed into the wrong Bark account.
- Stuck During Bark Phone SetupCovers common setup issues including slow activation, device errors, and phones assigned to the wrong child.
- Why does it say "Sign in with your work account" on a Bark Phone?This is a standard Google prompt on managed devices like the Bark Phone.
- Bark Phone stuck on "Activate Family Link Parental Controls"The Bark Phone doesn't support Google Family Link parental controls.
- Bark Phone says "Google Play services account action required"This notification usually means the Google account signed into the Bark Phone isn't compatible with the device.
- Can I use Google Family Link to supervise a Bark Phone?No, but Bark’s built-in features cover everything you would receive via Google Family Link and so much more.
- Bark Phone can't make callsIf you see 'Service not available' or 'Emergency calls only,' try these fixes before contacting support.
- Why are my contacts, emails, and events showing up on my child's Bark Phone?Sign out of your Google account on the Bark Phone and sign back in with your child's account instead.
- Why does it say "This device belongs to your organization" on a Bark Phone?This is expected behavior and does not affect how the Bark Phone works.
- Can't install Bark Kids app on a Bark PhoneThe Bark Kids app comes pre-installed on a Bark Phone.
- Google Play Store is missing from the Bark PhoneThe Play Store may be hidden or disabled depending on your child's Bark Phone plan or your App Store settings.
- Manage settings app access for the Bark PhoneThe Settings app can't be blocked on the Bark Phone, but restricted settings require a device code only you have.
- Unable to sign in to Google Play Store or Google servicesSupervised and school-issued Google accounts may not work on the Bark Phone — here's how to fix it.
- Error on Google Play: "Problem communicating with Google servers"This error usually means a spotty internet connection or a web filter is blocking Google's servers.
- Error on Google Play: "This app won't work for your device"Try updating your child's software first — if that doesn't help, the app may simply not support the device.
- Can't find an app in the Google Play Store of the Bark PhoneIf you see 'Parental controls restrict downloading of this app,' Google Play parental controls are turned on and need to be disabled.
- Google Play app downloads and updates stuck "pending" or "Waiting for Wi-Fi"Enable Mobile Data first, then clear the Play Store cache or uninstall updates if downloads remain stuck.
- "Already used ICCID" error when setting up Bark PhoneThis error may be caused by the SIM card being in the wrong slot, the wrong SIM card being inserted, or the phone not being connected to Wi-Fi.
- "Message not sent. Touch to retry" Error on a Bark PhoneThere's an issue with the cell reception, SIM card, or billing.
- "Couldn't send message, service unavailable" Error on a Bark PhoneThere's an issue with the cell reception, SIM card, or billing.
- "Message Blocking is Active" Error on a Bark PhoneThere's a billing issue with your child's phone or with the other person they're texting.
- "Not Registered on Network" Error on a Bark PhoneThere's an issue with the SIM card or with billing.Â
- "SIM1 not provisioned" Error on a Bark PhoneThere's an issue with the SIM card or with billing.
- "Emergency calls only" Error on a Bark PhoneThere's an issue with the SIM card or with billing.
- "The subscriber you have dialed is not in service" when calling a Bark PhoneThere's an issue with the Bark Phone's SIM card or billing.Â
- Important Bark Phone Setting Has Been DisabledThis means tamper protections have kicked in.
- Screen turns off while using the Bark PhoneAdjust the screen timeout setting to keep the display on longer between interactions.
- Screen time protection has been disrupted on the Bark PhoneScreen time and web filtering on the Bark Phone relies on a VPN connection.
- Forgot Bark Phone lock screen password or PINBark support will need to help you reset a forgotten lock screen PIN, password, or pattern on the Bark Phone.
- "Action not allowed" message on a Bark PhoneThis message means an app or feature has been blocked either by your settings or by Bark's automatic protections.
- How to check the SIM/MicroSD slot on a Bark PhoneUse an ejector pin or small paperclip to eject the tray.
- All Bark Phone apps are grayed out or blockedLearn how to get apps back to normal.
- Unapproved numbers can call or text the Bark PhoneAdjust a few settings to block them.
- Bark Phone rule changes are slow to updateRule changes require an internet connection and active Bark permissions to reach the Bark Phone.
- Troubleshoot the texting app on the Bark PhoneFix issues with Bark Phone texting.
- How do I save photos from texts on a Bark Phone?Tap and hold a message to save an image, or use Google Photos or Drive for larger files.
- Troubleshooting the Camera App on the Bark PhoneIf the camera app is missing, it's likely blocked in your Bark parent app settings.
- Bark Phone Message Attachment Size Exceeds Max MMS LimitPhoto and video attachments to texts are automatically compressed to save cellular data.
- Storage access is disabled in Bark PhoneThe Bark Phone needs Storage Access enabled for the Bark Kids and Bark Guard Dog apps to work properly.
- Bark Phone won't automatically connect to Wi-FiEnable auto-reconnect in Wi-Fi settings, or use location services to turn Wi-Fi on and off automatically.
- The Find Phone or Watch button disappeared from the dashboardThe Find Phone or Watch button disappears when service is canceled or suspended due to a billing issue.
- "No app found to open URL" error on Bark PhoneWeb browsing is blocked on this Bark Phone, either by your settings or because the device is on the Starter Plan.
- "Subscriber not found" error when updating E-911 address for Bark PhoneIf you see this error after updating your E-911 address, contact Bark support to complete the update manually.
- Airplane Mode on Bark devicesAirplane Mode is blocked by default on most Bark devices, but not on the Bark Watch Samsung model.
- Move a Bark Phone or Watch to a different kidYou'll need to contact Bark support to transfer a Bark Phone or Watch from one child to another.
- Samsung NewsYou can block Samsung News in Bark or remove it from the home screen.
- Samsung KidsSamsung Kids is not recommended on the Bark Phone — use Bark's built-in parental controls instead.
- Samsung Smart Switch AppSamsung Smart Switch is not compatible with the Bark Phone — use these alternatives to transfer your data instead.
- Google One AppGoogle One's backup feature will not work with the Bark Phone.
- Stuck in Bark Watch SetupCovers common setup issues including slow activation, error messages, and watches assigned to the wrong child.
- Screen turns off while using the Bark WatchYou can keep the screen on longer by changing its timeout in the watch's display settings.
- Bark Watch calls disconnect unexpectedlyA weak cell signal is the most common reason calls drop on the watch.
- Bark Watch can't send texts or make callsMost texting and calling problems come down to signal, your rules, or contact approval.
- If your Bark Watch won't charge or it won't turn onCheck the charging connection and clean the port first.
- Bark Watch can't share photos or videos via BluetoothBluetooth sharing isn't supported on the Bark Watch, but your child can share photos and videos via text.
- Bark Watch fails to install firmware updateMake sure it's connected to Wi-Fi for the update.
- Bark Watch is overheatingIf the watch gets too hot, it shuts down to protect itself. Let it cool before using it again.
- Bark Watch is unresponsiveWhat to do if it won't respond to touches or button presses.
- Can't find the charging cable for the Bark Watch (Samsung model)It's in the box, but you may have missed it.
Troubleshooting Androids
Find solutions for monitoring and filtering Android devices, including Amazon Fire.
- Troubleshoot AndroidFix issues with your child's Android phone or tablet
- Screen time protection has been disrupted on AndroidJust open the Bark Kids app to reconnect the VPN.
- "Parent needed" error when installing Bark Kids app on AndroidYou'll need to allow apps from unknown sources in the Family Link app.
- "Action not allowed" error when installing Bark Kids app on AndroidAllow apps from unknown sources in your Family Link parent app.
- "Harmful app blocked" error when installing Bark Kids app on AndroidJust tap More details > Install anyway to get past it.
- "Unknown app blocked" error due to "Auto Blocker" setting on Samsung devicesDisable Auto Blocker in device settings to get past it.
- "App was denied access" error when installing Bark Kids app on AndroidAllow restricted settings to get past it.
- Turn off Secure DNS on AndroidSecure DNS can interfere with Bark's screen time controls on Android and should be turned off in Chrome.
- Turn off Private DNS on AndroidPrivate DNS can interfere with Bark's screen time controls on Android and should be turned off.
- Enable Accessibility for Bark on AndroidThe Bark Kids app requires Accessibility to be enabled on Android to monitor your child's device properly.
- Troubleshoot Amazon FireFix issues with your child's Amazon tablet.
- Turn off Secure DNS on Amazon FireSecure DNS can interfere with Bark's screen time controls on Amazon Fire and should be turned off.
- Enable Accessibility for Bark on Amazon FireThe Bark Kids app requires Accessibility to be enabled on Amazon Fire to monitor your child's device properly.
- Prevent Bark Kids from being affected by battery settings on AndroidBattery optimization settings on Android can prevent Bark from running in the background.
- Prevent Bark Kids from being affected by data settings on AndroidData saver settings on Android can prevent Bark from staying connected.
- How to bookmark Bark on your Android home screenBookmarking the Bark website gives you app-like access without needing the parent app installed.
- Battery optimization on Samsung devicesSamsung's One UI has additional battery settings beyond standard Android that can interfere with Bark.
- Battery optimization on Pinwheel devicesThe Pinwheel Portal also needs Bark allowed for all modes in addition to device-level battery settings.
- Battery optimization on Huawei devicesThese extra steps are required in addition to the standard Android battery settings.
- Battery optimization on Sony devicesStamina Mode on Sony devices can restrict background apps like Bark and needs to be disabled separately.
- Battery optimization on Palm devicesPalm devices have a Sleep feature that can interrupt Bark unless background data and optimization are adjusted.
- Battery optimization on OnePlus devicesOnePlus's Oxygen OS has multiple layered battery settings.
Troubleshooting iPhone and iPad
Find solutions for monitoring and filtering Apple iOS devices.
- Screen time protection has been disrupted on iOSJust open the Bark Kids app to reconnect the VPN.
- Troubleshoot iPhone and iPadFix issues with your child's iOS device.
- Error: Kid was asked to enter their passcode and we're still waitingApple requires a passcode for iOS monitoring, but switching to the Bark Sync removes this step entirely.
- There was a problem analyzing the iOS deviceTroubleshooting steps differ depending on whether you use Bark Sync, Bark Home, or a computer to monitor iOS.
- iOS device not detected over Wi-FiWi-Fi detection issues are usually fixed by checking your network connection, VPN settings, or firewall.
- iOS device not detected over USBWhat to do if your child's iOS device is not detected while plugged in.
- Check available storage space on your devicesLow storage can affect iOS monitoring. Here's how to check — and fix it.
- Check for software updates on your devicesLearn how to update the software on your family's devices.
- Allow Bark through your firewallYour firewall may be accidentally blocking the Bark Desktop App or Bark Home from doing its job.
- iOS device is no longer paired or trustedThis usually happens after a device settings change or a long period without connecting.
- How to prevent your kid from deleting Bark on iOS
- Update the Bark Kids App on iOSThe Bark Kids app updates automatically by default, but here's how to update it manually if needed.
- Enable cellular data for the Bark Kids app on iOSCellular data must be enabled for the Bark Kids app to block apps and sites when your child is away from home Wi-Fi.
- How to Update iTunesUpdate instructions vary depending on whether you're on a Windows PC or a Mac.
- Update Apple Software on MacGet Apple drivers updated to monitor iOS devices with the computer method.
- Update Apple Software on WindowsGet Apple drivers updated to monitor iOS devices with the computer method.
- Update the Bark Desktop App on MacWe automatically update the Bark Desktop App on Mac.
- Update the Bark Desktop App on WindowsWe automatically update the Bark Desktop App on Windows.
- How to bookmark Bark on your iPhone home screenBookmarking the Bark website gives you app-like access on your iPhone or iPad without needing the parent app installed.
- Delete old iOS monitoring files on MacWipe all Bark Desktop App data from MacOS.
- Delete old iOS monitoring files on WindowsWipe all Bark Desktop App data from your PC.
- Bark Desktop App is not opening on MacFix it by adjusting a few settings.
- Bark Desktop App is not opening on WindowsFix it by adjusting a few settings.
- Error: Data on iOS device is encryptedEncryption needs to be removed through iTunes or Finder before Bark can analyze the device.
- "Privacy Warning" on an iOS deviceThis warning is expected when using Bark Home and doesn't mean anything is wrong with your network.
- Bark Sync has poor Wi-Fi connectivityPlace the Bark Sync closer to your router and check the signal strength in the Bark Kids app.
- Bark Sync can't connect to Wi-FiA blinking blue LED means the Bark Sync lost its Wi-Fi connection — plugging in your child's device and tapping the error in the Bark Kids app will reconnect it.
- Bark Sync has incorrect lock screen passcode savedYou can update the saved passcode from either the parent app or the Bark Kids app on your child's device.
- iOS device has no network connectivity when plugged into Bark SyncThe Bark Sync may have lost its Wi-Fi connection.
- Error: "Sync not found" during setupCheck that the Bark-provided cable is securely connected between the iOS device and Bark Sync.
Troubleshooting screen time and filtering
Find solutions for issues encountered with blocking apps and sites on your family's devices.
- If a website, app, game, or feature isn't working on your child's deviceBlocked apps and sites can cause errors, slow performance, or features that stop working unexpectedly.
- Troubleshooting screen time & web filteringBlocked apps and sites can cause errors, slow performance, or features that stop working unexpectedly.
- Screen time protection has been disruptedScreen time protection can be disrupted when the Bark Kids VPN is disabled.
- Bark Home "Not detected" or "MAC address does not match any known devices" error during setupLearn how to fix setup issues with Bark Home.
- Slow internet speedsLearn how to improve your speed.
- Turn off Secure DNS on ChromebookIf websites and apps aren't being blocked on your child's Chromebook, check whether Secure DNS is enabled.
- Device is using a private address or randomized MAC addressFix this so that your screen time & web filtering rules stay in place.
- Mobile screen time & filtering was manually disabledA lapse in screen time protection was detected and later fixed — here's what to check to prevent it from happening again.
- My kid's computer isn't blocking websites and appsComputers are filtered through Bark Home — make sure the device is identified, assigned, and has Secure DNS turned off.
- Turn off Secure DNS on Windows and MacIf sites and apps are not being blocked on your child's computer browser, Secure DNS could be the reason!
- Bark Home has lost contactCheck the power, ethernet connection, and LED lights to get the Bark Home back online.
- Disable Guest Mode on ChromebookWithout disabling Guest Mode, children can browse the web without Bark's monitoring or filtering in place.
- Screen time protection has been disrupted on ChromebookOpening the Bark for Chromebooks app usually reconnects the VPN and restores protection automatically.
- Device is missing from Unmanaged profileThis article is for users who've set up a Bark Home (or a router with Bark built in).
- Connection Status "Undetected" for Router with Bark Built-InFix common issues with Bark router setup.
- Why am I seeing copies of the same device?Duplicate devices usually appear when a device connects through both the Bark Kids app and Bark Home, or uses a randomized MAC address.
- Samsung Secure Wi-Fi Security AlertThis alert appears because Bark Home filters network traffic — tap 'Add to exceptions' to dismiss it.
- Disable Guest Mode, Incognito Mode, Tor Mode, and Secure DNS on Brave (Windows)These modes allow children to bypass Bark's filtering — disabling them requires running a few commands in Command Prompt.
- Disable Guest Mode, Incognito Mode, and Secure DNS on Brave (Mac)These modes allow children to bypass Bark's filtering — disabling them requires running a few commands in Terminal.
- Disable Guest Mode, Incognito Mode, & Secure DNS on Chrome (Windows)These modes allow children to bypass Bark's filtering — disabling them requires running a few commands in Command Prompt.
- Disable Guest Mode, Incognito Mode, & Secure DNS on Chrome (Mac)These modes allow children to bypass Bark's filtering — disabling them requires running a few commands in Terminal.
- Disable Guest Mode, InPrivate Mode, & Secure DNS on Edge (Windows)These modes allow children to bypass Bark's filtering — disabling them requires running a few commands in Command Prompt.
- Disable Guest Mode, InPrivate Mode, & Secure DNS on Edge (Mac)These modes allow children to bypass Bark's filtering — disabling them requires running a few commands in Terminal.
- How to Disable IPv6Advanced troubleshooting situations may require you disable IPv6 in your computer settings.
- Make your Eero router system compatible with Bark HomeMost Eero routers are compatible with the Bark Home. Here's how to make sure your Eero settings are set up for success:
- How to factory reset the Bark HomeThis article will show you the steps for how to factory reset the Bark Home.
Troubleshooting location tracking
Get help calibrating the GPS on your kid's device for accurate location alerts and tracking.
- Calibrate LocationIf location tracking is inaccurate, calibrating the GPS on your child's device usually fixes it.
- Calibrate location on the Bark PhoneMost of these settings come pre-enabled on the Bark Phone, but if location tracking is inaccurate, here's what to check.
- Calibrate location on iOS devicesLocation Services must be set to 'Always' for the Bark Kids app to track your child's iPhone or iPad accurately.
- Calibrate location on AndroidLocation Services must be set to 'Always' for the Bark Kids app to track your child's Android phone or tablet accurately. This comes pre-enabled on Bark Phone.
- Calibrate location on the Bark WatchFix location that shows in the wrong spot or updates slowly with a few quick checks.
- Check location permissions on ChromebookLocation permissions for the Bark for Chromebooks app are managed through Android preferences in the Chromebook settings.
- Location has already been addedIt's a Favorite Location you've already saved.
Other troubleshooting
Get help with that error message or problem.
- Not getting alerts for kid's texts, photos, or videosFix issues with monitoring your child's device monitoring.
- How to prevent your kid from deleting BarkProtection against app deletion varies by device — Bark Phone and Bark Watch have it built in, while Androids and iPhones need a few extra steps.
- Fix issues with push notificationsIf push notifications aren't coming through, check your account settings, app version, and device notification permissions.
- Block text messagesThe Bark Phone and Bark Watch offer control over blocking texts and calls from unapproved contacts.
- Block spam on your kid's devicesSpam calls and texts are today's version of junk mail. Here are a few ways to reduce the number of unwanted calls and texts your child receives.
- Error: "Something went wrong"Let's figure out where the error occurred.
- Error: "Not found"Oops, the resource you were looking for was not found.
- Troubleshooting Edge, Chrome, & Chromebook MonitoringHere's how to troubleshoot for the Bark browser extensions and the Bark for Chromebooks app on your child's computer(s).
- Enable Accessibility for Bark on ChromebookThe Bark for Chromebooks app requires Accessibility to be enabled to monitor your child's Chromebook properly.
- Did I accidentally start monitoring myself (the parent)?Check your phone and dashboard to make sure only your child's accounts and devices are connected for monitoring
- Can't enable Bark for Chrome extension on ChromebookHow to fix issues with the Bark for Chrome extension.
- Bark AccessoriesWe've rounded up popular accessories to help your family get the most out of Bark.
- How to find the IMEI of a phone, tablet, or watchThe IMEI number uniquely identifies your device and may be needed by Bark support to assist with issues.
- Screen recording for customer supportHere's how to take a video of an issue.
- How to uninstall BarkIn most cases, it's how you'd uninstall any other app.