Apple has long been committed to user privacy and safety, and its latest move is no different. 
With the upcoming iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, visionOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26, the company is doubling down on child safety across its ecosystem. The new updates include a series of features designed to ensure a safer communication environment for kids, with an added layer of parental control.
One of the standout updates is the Messaging Approval for Kids. In this new system, whenever a child tries to send a message to a new phone number, parents must approve the contact before any communication can take place
. This process will notify parents via the Messages app, giving them the option to either approve or decline the connection.
To expand these controls even further, Apple is introducing PermissionKit, a new framework for developers. This framework will enable third-party apps to integrate similar safety features, ensuring that any social media or gaming platforms that kids use will also require parental approval before making new connections.
Apple’s focus on child protection goes beyond messaging. The App Store’s age ratings are becoming more detailed, allowing parents to have a clearer understanding of which categories of apps are appropriate for their children. Along with the automatic safety settings for children under 13, the new system will extend similar protections to teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17.
Moreover, Apple is introducing a Declared Age Range API, which allows parents to set a child’s age range without revealing the exact birth date. This addition enhances privacy while still providing the necessary control over content and contacts.
As privacy and safety concerns continue to grow, Apple’s proactive measures are likely to resonate with both parents and the tech community, reinforcing the company’s reputation for prioritizing digital safety.