- Set time limits on apps, smart screen time dashboard available.
Apple Update: With the increasing influence of technology, children’s online safety has become a major concern of every parent today. Keeping this need in mind, Apple has introduced many new parental control and child safety features in its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026. These features will be available in upcoming iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices with macOS 27, iPadOS 27, and iOS 27. The company says that with the help of these tools, parents will be able to have better control over children’s online activity, app usage and digital behavior.
Facility of separate child account for children
Apple will now offer the option to create a special Child Account for children when setting up a device. This account will automatically implement security measures according to the age of the children. Under this, access to adult websites will be limited, content suitable for children will be recommended and age-appropriate control will also be implemented on the App Store.
The aim is to ensure that children only view content that is safe and appropriate for their age.
Parents will decide which apps children will be able to use.
After the new update, parents will be able to decide which apps their children can use after turning on the device. Apple will provide a list of some important and safe apps from which you can choose.
Apart from this, parents can add any new app by approving it at their level. As children grow, additional apps can be allowed for them.
What is Ask to Browse feature?
Apple is expanding its already existing Ask to Buy system. Currently this feature asks for parental permission for app downloads and in-app purchases.
Now the company is bringing a new feature called Ask to Browse. Under this, if a child wants to visit a new website in Safari browser, then the approval of the parents will be required first. This will prevent children from accessing unknown or risky websites.
Permission will be given even before adding new contacts
Apple has also made changes to contact management to make children’s online conversations safer. Now children will get parental approval before contacting any new person through Phone, FaceTime or Messages.
This feature will help parents to know with whom their children are communicating.
Strict monitoring of objectionable and violent content
The company has further strengthened its Communication Safety feature. Under this, the content related to nudity in the pictures and videos shared will be automatically blurred.
Additionally, scenes that are excessively violent, gory or disturbing to users under the age of 18 will also be detected and blocked by the system. This will help in protecting children from mentally affecting content.
Parents will be able to set time limit for apps
Apple has also introduced a new option called Time Allowances. With its help, parents will be able to set usage time limits for different app categories like gaming, social media and entertainment.
They will also be able to make schedules according to different times of the day. For example, some apps may be blocked completely during study or school hours, while they may be allowed to be used at other times.
Screen Time dashboard becomes smarter
Apple has also redesigned its Screen Time feature. Parents will now get a clearer and more detailed overview of their children’s device usage. From this dashboard they will be able to make changes in the rules related to apps, websites and other digital activities. With this, all controls can be easily managed from one place.
Apple’s big focus on children’s online safety
Apple has also launched a separate website for information related to parental controls and online safety where parents will find useful resources and guidance. The company believes that in the rapidly growing digital world, it is extremely important to protect children from privacy threats and inappropriate content.
The new features show that tech companies are no longer limited to just making devices but are also paying special attention to creating a safe digital environment for children.
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