Apple has unveiled a major update to its parental control features, set to launch this fall with iOS 26 and across its entire software lineup.
The new tools are designed to help parents better protect their children and teens online while maintaining Apple’s strong focus on privacy and user control. This move comes in response to growing concerns around digital safety, especially in light of rising threats like online exploitation and exposure to inappropriate content.
One of the key changes includes a simpler setup process for Child Accounts. Parents can now create accounts for children under 13 more easily, with the option to complete setup later while Apple still enforces age-appropriate default settings from the start.
Parents will also be able to verify or correct their child’s birthdate and connect the account to Family Sharing, enabling access to features like Screen Time, content filters, and app restrictions.
Apple is also introducing a new privacy-focused tool called the Declared Age Range API. This allows parents to share their child’s general age group (such as 9–12 or 13–15) with apps instead of a full birthdate, helping developers tailor content appropriately without collecting sensitive data.
Parents remain in control and can choose whether to always share this information, approve it per app, or block it entirely.
Importantly, the protections that were once limited to younger children such as web content filters and Communication Safety will now automatically extend to teens aged 13 to 17.
This includes warning systems that detect nudity in images sent via iMessage or seen in FaceTime calls, and blur explicit content shared in Photos albums. Children will also be required to ask permission before initiating contact with unknown people through phone, FaceTime, or Messages. With Apple’s new PermissionKit, this rule now applies to third-party apps too, including social platforms.
The App Store is also being updated with expanded age ratings, in addition to the existing 4+ and 9+, developers will now be required to use new age bands including 13+, 16+, and 18+.
Parents can set app access limits based on these ratings, and the system will automatically hide apps that exceed the defined threshold. App Store listings will also include clearer information on whether an app contains ads, user-generated content, or in-app parental controls.
Apple stated that these changes reflect its commitment to offering meaningful protections while respecting privacy.
Unlike some government-led approaches that demand strict age verification using ID cards or facial recognition, Apple’s system avoids collecting or storing personal data. These updates come as tech companies face increasing pressure to address online harms affecting young users.
All features are expected to be available later this year with the public release of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, visionOS 26, and tvOS 26.
Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri.
