Apple recently added age verification rules across a range of its services in the UK, in response to pressure from the government around ensuring safety on the internet for younger users.
The company stated its latest software update, made available on the 25th of March 2026, means adults must confirm they are aged 18-years or older to use certain services or features.
Age can be confirmed with a credit card or by scanning an ID. If a payment method is already on file, Apple will check to confirm if the user is of age.
For those underage, or adults who have not confirmed their age, web content filters and Apple’s Communication Safety features are automatically turned on.
The safety checks are tailored to Messages and FaceTime video calls, designed to detect explicit photos and videos.
It added a child under 13 years-old cannot create an Apple account in the UK without consent from a parent or guardian and they must be part of a Family Shared group.
Leader
In a statement, communications regulator Ofcom asserted Apple’s decision makes it one of the first countries in the world to receive new child safety protections on devices, “in a real win for children and families”.
The UK government stepped up a campaign to hold technology companies accountable for content shared on their platforms after rolling out the Online Safety Act.
Ofcom added it worked with Apple on the age verification process.
Source: Mobile World Live
Image Credit: Apple
