Apple to Launch New Child-Safety Controls in 2026, Citing Expert Guidance and Australian Influence
Apple has announced plans to introduce new child-safety controls later in 2026. The company stated that its approach is based on expert guidance but acknowledged the influence of Australia's ban on social media for users under 16.
The new controls are scheduled for release in 2026.
The Australian Precedent
The Australian policy has led to the removal or restriction of millions of child accounts. Other countries have introduced or considered similar measures, though the effectiveness of such policies remains debated, with no consensus on their impact.
Regulatory Alignment
Regulators view Apple's move as aligning with broader efforts, including a proposed "digital duty of care" that would increase technology companies' responsibility for protecting children online.
Apple credits its decision to expert guidance rather than directly to the Australian ban. However, the company acknowledged the ban's influence.
Conflicting Viewpoints
Sources report that the impact of Australia's social media ban is debated, with no consensus on its effectiveness.