Apple has officially launched a suite of new features designed to enhance online safety for kids and teens across its devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple Vision Pro, and Apple TV. These updates aim to provide parents with more control and ensure age-appropriate experiences for younger users from the moment a device is set up.
Building on existing tools like Screen Time and App Store parental controls, Apple’s latest enhancements were initially previewed in June and are now available with the release of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, visionOS 26, and tvOS 26.
What’s New
The new features expand Apple’s efforts to simplify child account management and bolster protections for teens aged 13 to 17.
Key updates include:
- Age-Range Sharing for Apps: Parents can now share their child’s age range with apps in a privacy-preserving way, helping ensure tailored, appropriate experiences for kids.
- Enhanced App Store Age Ratings: New granular age ratings—13+, 16+, and 18+—provide parents with more detailed guidance for app suitability. The App Store now also includes clearer labeling for features like advertising, user-generated content, and parental controls.
- Improved Communication Limits: Parents can remotely approve new contacts for their children when using Apple apps, offering an extra layer of oversight.
- Expanded Default Protections for Teens: Teen users now benefit from additional safeguards designed to support safer digital interactions.
Privacy and Usability at the Core
Apple emphasizes that these tools are designed to be intuitive and easy to use, in line with the company’s broader commitment to privacy and security. With these updates, parents have greater control over their children’s digital experiences while ensuring their personal data remains protected.
Availability
The new features are part of Apple’s latest software updates, which are available now as free downloads for eligible devices. However, availability may vary by region, language, and device model.
To explore Apple’s family safety features, visit apple.com/families.
