09 June,2026 12:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Apple unveils powerful child safety tools with iOS 27 at WWDC 2026 (Pic/Apple)
Apple, on Monday during the WWDC 2026, previewed a new suite of powerful, intuitive, and easy-to-use features designed to allow parents to more easily manage the content their children can see, who they can communicate with, and when they have access to apps.
Along with announcing the all-new AI-integrated Siri, one thing that stands as underrated is the all-new child safety feature.
With software updates launching this September, parents, after installing the all-new iOS 27 on their iPhones, will be able to access new child safety features, including a simpler setup experience with a recommended set of essential apps, Ask to Browse, Time Allowances, and a redesigned Screen Time.
These updates enhance Apple's already industry-leading parental controls and underscore its commitment to building a safe and trusted platform for kids.
Sumbul Desai, M.D., Apple's vice president of Health and Fitness, said, "At Apple, our mission has always been to create technology that empowers people and enriches their lives, while helping keep them safe."
One of the most interesting features in the child safety category is that now parents can help their kids get a focused start by choosing exactly which apps they can access on their devices.
Parents have the option to start with just a few essential apps, a curated set, or choose just the apps they feel are appropriate for their child. Parents can then gradually add more apps over time while staying in control at every step.
From the start, parents are able to manage who their children can connect with over Messages, FaceTime, and Phone. As kids look to communicate with new contacts, parents can require their kids to ask for approval before connecting with anyone new.
Communication Safety already blurs nudity when detected in Messages and FaceTime calls and is turned on by default for users under 18, and now it will also intervene to block gore or violent content when detected in shared images or videos.
The new software updates on the Apple devices have redesigned Screen Time, which gives parents an at-a-glance view of their kids' average device usage and most used apps.
Parents can easily make adjustments to their kids' access to apps and the web in the moment, with just a tap. For example, to help protect important family moments, parents can quickly limit access during meals, outdoor play, and other times that deserve full attention. If kids need a little extra time to finish something in an app, parents can also easily extend access.
Another feature that will be integrated into Apple devices as soon as the new update rolls out will help parents stay informed and learn more. Apple has launched a dedicated website that features the latest tools, helpful resources, and answers to common questions like how to get started.
Apple officials further highlighted that parents can also learn more online about existing trusted tools to help them protect their children, including:
Screen Time Passcode Notifications alert parents when their Screen Time passcode has been entered on their child's device.
User Reporting Tools, available in certain countries and regions, report harmful content directly to Apple, and will be expanded globally.
