Apple’s iOS 26.4 update adds age verification in the UK

Apple now requires users in the UK to verify their age with the launch of iOS 26.4. In a support page on Apple’s website, the company says users must confirm that they’re over 18 to “use certain services or features, or take certain actions on their account.”

UK users can confirm their age by scanning their ID or using a credit card. If a user already has an Apple account, the company may use a linked payment method to verify that they’re over 18. Otherwise, Apple will automatically enable child safety protections, including features that block adult content on the web and blur messages containing nudity.

Apple launched iOS 26.4 on Tuesday, which introduces the ability to create AI-generated playlists in Apple Music, a new concert discovery feature, and a bunch of emoji. When the iOS 26.4 beta launched last month, Apple showed UK users a prompt that said they may “not be able to download and purchase apps or make in-app purchases” without verifying their age. Apple spokesperson Peter Ajemian later told The Verge that the message “suggesting age verification is required to download apps” was “displayed in error.”

As noted by the Financial Times, Apple’s App Store and operating system aren’t covered by the UK’s Online Safety Act, which requires platforms that host content deemed inappropriate for children to implement age verification. Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, called the move a “real win for children and families” in a statement to the Financial Times.

Update, March 25th: Clarified that the age verification message shown in error pertained to app downloads.