The forthcoming iOS 26 update from Apple is set to introduce an array of features and modifications that go beyond mere entertainment. During the recent WWDC event, Apple unveiled several enhancements designed to assist parents in safeguarding their children while they use iPhones.

Here are eight notable updates that will be available for your family’s devices this fall.

Texting New Numbers Requires Permission

After updating to iOS 26, children will only be permitted to send messages to contacts already saved on their devices. If they wish to reach out to a new number, your approval will be necessary.

This process echoes the current methods for requesting additional Screen Time or making purchases: a request will arrive via Messages, and Apple states that it can be accepted or declined with a simple tap. Furthermore, developers can integrate this capability into their applications, enabling children to request chats, follows, or friend status on various platforms.

Sharing Age Ranges with Applications

Credit: Apple

Applications that provide tailored experiences based on user age may request an age range for your child instead of their exact birth date. This allows the app to customize its content according to the specified age range while maintaining your child’s privacy.

Moreover, users can manage these requests similarly to other app permissions. Options include sharing the age range universally with all apps or requiring separate consent for every request. Alternatively, you can opt out of sharing age ranges altogether in the future.

This adjustment could be in response to emerging legislation across the U.S. mandating app stores to verify user age.

New Restrictions for Teen Accounts

While Child Accounts are mandatory for users under 13, they are optional for those aged 13 to 17. Consequently, some teens may have inherent protections, while others who registered post-13 may lack certain limits.

Going forward, Apple will automatically impose new restrictions on teen accounts. These will include content filters for web browsing and Communication Safety features that alert users about inappropriate content, such as nudity.

Updated Age Rating Categories

The App Store currently offers four age ratings: 4+, 9+, 12+, and 17+. Apple has announced the expansion of this list to five, introducing three additional ratings aimed at older adolescents: 13+, 16+, and 18+. While explicit details are pending, it is expected that 4+ and 9+ ratings will remain unchanged.

This change addresses the gap between 12+ and 17+ ratings, allowing developers to more accurately classify their content for specific age groups.

Content Warnings on the App Store

With the upcoming changes, users will encounter new alerts for applications that may include user-generated content, messaging features, or advertisements that could raise concerns. Additionally, app listings will indicate whether in-app content controls exist, providing options to adjust experiences for children.

Blocking Inappropriate Apps for Kids

When establishing app content restrictions, the App Store will automatically conceal applications with age ratings higher than those limitations. This means kids can explore sections like Today, Games, and Apps without encountering unsuitable content.

Enhancing the Ask to Buy Feature

Children can also request to purchase items outside their designated age restrictions through the Ask to Buy feature. This function enables kids to send requests for purchases on the App Store. With the new update, parents can permit an exception to the age guidelines, granting their children access to specific apps while retaining the ability to revoke permissions at any time.

Updated Communication Safety Features

Communication Safety will also be enhanced to monitor for nudity during FaceTime calls, offering proactive interventions when necessary. Moreover, nudity will be blurred in Shared Albums within the Photos application, further emphasizing Apple’s commitment to user safety.