Apple is set to roll out new child safety features in iOS 27, enhancing protections for young users across its devices.
New Delhi, India Jul 12, 2026 ALN: In June, at its Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple dedicated a significant portion of its keynote to unveiling new child safety features slated for release later this fall. This announcement came as a surprise to many, including Sarah Gardner, founder and CEO of the Heat Initiative, a nonprofit advocating for child safety in technology. Gardner, who has protested outside Apple Park multiple times, noted that the company's acknowledgment of child safety during the keynote was unprecedented. "Overall, it was a huge win that they spent 10 minutes of the keynote addressing child safety, because that never would have happened a few years ago," she stated. Gardner emphasized that Apple had previously distanced itself from discussions about its role in children's online experiences.
Despite the positive steps represented by the new features in iOS 27, Gardner expressed skepticism about their effectiveness. She highlighted ongoing lawsuits against Apple related to child safety, including one from West Virginia, which alleges that the company's practices inadvertently support the distribution of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). These lawsuits underscore the complex and often contentious relationship between technology companies and child safety advocacy, raising questions about the responsibility of platforms in safeguarding minors.
Apple's previous attempts to implement a photo-scanning tool for detecting CSAM faced backlash from privacy advocates, leading the company to abandon the initiative. This incident exemplified the ongoing tension between privacy rights and child safety measures, a dichotomy that many tech companies grapple with. Gardner continues to advocate for a balanced approach that prioritizes both child safety and user privacy, emphasizing that any measures taken must not infringe on the fundamental rights of users.
So, what can users expect in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27? Here are some of the key updates that Apple has introduced to enhance child safety:
The onboarding process for creating a child account has been revamped, now taking approximately six minutes to complete. This account is mandatory for children under 13 and available for those up to 18. It includes features such as limiting access to adult websites and setting age-appropriate media restrictions, enabling parents to have greater control over their children's digital experiences. This change reflects a growing acknowledgment of the need for tailored online environments for younger users, who may not yet possess the maturity to navigate the complexities of the internet safely.
A new feature in Safari, called Ask to Browse, requires children to request permission from their parents before visiting new websites. This function mirrors the Ask to Buy feature in the App Store, providing a familiar interface for both children and parents. This feature aims to foster communication between parents and children about online activities, encouraging discussions about safe browsing habits and the potential dangers of certain websites.
Children will now need parental approval to save or communicate with new contacts on Phone, FaceTime, or Messages. Parents will receive a notification for approval, which can help prevent unwanted interactions from strangers or inappropriate contacts. This measure is particularly important in an age where social media and messaging apps have become integral to children's social lives, yet also pose significant risks.
Apple's existing Communication Safety feature will now automatically detect and blur nudity in Messages, FaceTime, and AirDrop for users under 18. This update also extends to graphic violent content, aiming to shield young users from exposure to harmful material. The implementation of such features is part of a broader trend in the tech industry towards creating safer environments for minors, reflecting growing concerns about the psychological and emotional impact of exposure to explicit content.
In collaboration with the American Academy of Pediatrics, Apple is introducing Time Allowances, which suggest appropriate screen time based on age. Parents can customize these allowances and set schedules for app usage, promoting healthier digital habits among children. This initiative aligns with recommendations from pediatric experts who advocate for mindful use of technology and the importance of setting boundaries to prevent excessive screen time.
Apple has reiterated its commitment to creating a safe platform for children while maintaining user privacy. However, experts like Anunay Kulshrestha, an applied cryptographer, remain cautious about the accountability of Apple's measures, especially in light of potential government pressures. The intersection of technology, legislation, and child safety is a complex landscape, and as Apple navigates these waters, the effectiveness of its initiatives will be scrutinized by both advocates and critics alike.
As these features roll out, the tech community will be watching closely to see how effectively Apple addresses child safety concerns while navigating the complexities of privacy and security. The implications of these changes extend beyond just Apple; they may set a precedent for other tech companies in their approach to child safety, potentially influencing industry standards and practices. Furthermore, as public awareness of child safety issues in the digital realm continues to grow, the pressure on tech companies to prioritize the well-being of young users is likely to increase, paving the way for more robust protections and innovations in the future.
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