Apple's iOS 27 will offer one of the most important iPhone upgrades in years

Parents concerned about what their children are viewing on their phones could soon get some extra peace of mind from Apple. The US technology giant has confirmed the launch of iOS 27 at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in California, introducing a range of extra parental control features that will roll out to millions of iPhones later this year. The updated operating system builds on Apple's existing child safety tools, making it easier for parents to create dedicated Child Accounts and manage how their children use their devices.

Once iOS 27 arrives, adults can simply block specific websites, limit screen time, and require approval before apps are downloaded.

One of the key additions gives parents greater control over who their children can communicate with through Messages, FaceTime and Phone. Children will be able to request new contacts, but parents can choose to approve or deny those requests before any connection is made.

With countless apps, websites and online services available, it's easier than ever for young users to encounter content that may not be appropriate for their age. Apple's Communication Safety feature already blurs nudity detected in Messages and FaceTime and is enabled by default for users under 18. With iOS 27, the feature will also help protect children from graphic, violent and gore-related content by intervening when such material is detected in shared photos or videos.

Parents will also be able to create daily schedules that determine which apps their children can access at different times of the day and throughout the week.

Another new addition, called Time Allowances, offers more flexible ways to manage how much time children spend in categories such as Entertainment, Games and Social Media. When setting these limits, parents will receive age-appropriate guidance informed by expert research.

"At Apple, our mission has always been to create technology that empowers people and enriches their lives, while helping keep them safe," said Sumbul Desai, M.D., Apple's Vice President of Health and Fitness.

"Our approach to helping families create safer digital experiences is grounded in the belief that every child is unique. That's why we build simple and intuitive tools, based on expert guidance, to let parents tailor their kids' digital journey. Today, we're introducing major updates to help families thoughtfully establish age-based protections and develop healthy digital habits."

iOS 27 is expected to launch in September and will be compatible with iPhones currently running iOS 26.