Apple introduces new features for child online safety
Apple has unveiled a set of user-friendly tools aimed at helping parents ensure safer and more enriching digital experiences for their children. This initiative, guided by experts in online safety and health, will be available with software updates this fall, offering an array of features that allow parents to manage the content their children can access, control their communication, and set app usage schedules.
In Toronto, Ontario, Apple announced these updates, which include a simplified setup with recommended essential apps, “Ask to Browse,” “Time Allowances,” and a revamped “Screen Time.” These enhancements build on Apple’s existing parental controls and emphasize the company’s dedication to providing a secure platform for kids.
According to Sumbul Desai, M.D., Apple’s vice president of Health and Fitness, the company’s mission is to create empowering technology that also keeps users safe. The new tools are designed to help families establish age-appropriate protections and promote healthy digital habits, based on expert advice and tailored for each child.
Setting up a Child Account
Creating a child account is an essential first step for parents who wish to tailor their child’s digital experience to their age. This account includes safeguards like blocking adult websites and restricting media to age-appropriate content. During device setup, parents are guided through creating this account, which is mandatory for children under 13 and available for those up to 18.
Once the account is set up, parents can select which apps their children can initially access. They can start with a few essential apps and gradually add more over time. The “Ask to Buy” feature lets parents approve app downloads or purchases, and the new “Ask to Browse” feature extends this permission requirement to accessing new websites in Safari, compatible across iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
Managing Connections and Content
Parents can control who their children communicate with through Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, requiring approval for new contacts. Communication Safety automatically blurs nudity in Messages and FaceTime, a feature now expanded to block content with gore or violence.
“Time Allowances” offers parents flexible options to limit app usage across categories like Entertainment and Games. Expert-recommended guidelines based on a child’s age help parents start, with the ability to adjust settings as needed. Parents can also set daily schedules to determine app access, ensuring children stay focused during important times like school.
Guiding Kids’ Digital Experience
The redesigned “Screen Time” provides a clear view of children’s device usage, allowing parents to make real-time adjustments. This feature helps protect family moments by limiting app access during meals or playtime, while also accommodating extra app time when required.
Resources for Parents
Apple continues to collaborate with researchers and organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics to integrate expert guidance into its products. A dedicated website now offers tools, resources, and answers to common questions, supporting parents in navigating these features.
Apple also encourages developers to create age-appropriate app experiences through the “Declared Age Range API,” which customizes app content based on a child’s age range without compromising privacy.
These new features will be part of the Screen Time update in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27. For more details on availability, visit apple.com/ca.
