Apple, a US technology company that develops the iPhone, has introduced a new age verification system for users in the United Kingdom, requiring individuals to confirm they are over 18 to access certain services and features, according to multiple reports.
The change was introduced as part of the iOS 26.4 software update. Users are prompted to verify their age through methods such as scanning a government-issued ID or using a credit card linked to their Apple account. In some cases, Apple may use existing payment data to confirm age without requiring additional input.
If a user does not complete the age verification process, the system automatically applies child safety settings to the device. These settings include restrictions on web content and features that limit access to material intended for adults.
The update affects access to certain services and account actions rather than the device as a whole. Apple stated that age confirmation is required to use specific features, though it has not publicly listed all affected services.
Reports indicate that the verification process requires either a credit card or official identification, such as a driver’s licence. Debit cards and some other forms of identification may not be accepted for verification.
The rollout applies to users across the United Kingdom and follows increased regulatory attention on online safety measures for minors. The UK communications regulator Ofcom stated that it worked with Apple on the development of the system and described the introduction of device-level protections as part of broader efforts to restrict access to harmful content for younger users.
Under the update, users who do not verify their age may experience limitations such as blocked access to certain websites or content categories. The system activates these restrictions automatically until verification is completed.
The age verification requirement is not directly mandated for operating systems under current UK law, but similar controls are required for platforms that host age-restricted content under the Online Safety Act.
Some users have reported technical issues with the verification process, including repeated prompts and failures when submitting required documents. Reports also indicate that users without access to accepted forms of identification or credit cards may face difficulties completing verification.