Apple launches new safety features for children’s accounts

Apple has released new safety features for children’s accounts with iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27. The tools give parents more control over websites, content, communication, and app access.

The update is available through Screen Time. To use it, every device in a Family Sharing group must run iOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27, watchOS 27, and visionOS 27.

Website approval and harmful content

Ask to Browse lets parents require approval before a child opens a new website in Safari. Communication Safety now blocks not only nudity but also gore and violent content in shared images and videos, including during FaceTime video calls.

New screen-time controls

Time Allowances provides expert-informed, age-tailored guidance for managing time in categories including Social Media, Entertainment, and Games. A redesigned Screen Time view shows usage at a glance and provides one-tap controls for changing access.

Apple also recommends a set of essential apps during setup for a new child account. The company said the features were informed by online-safety and health experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Some features may not be available in every region, language, or device model. Apple has launched a dedicated website with information about the new tools and how to get started.