Apple Rolls Out Age Checks for UK iPhone Users

Apple has launched age verification checks in the UK that require iPhone users to prove they are adults to access certain services, including 18+ apps. According to Daily Mail, users will see a prompt to confirm their age when creating a new Apple Account or using specific services. The move aligns with Ofcom's online safety laws designed to protect underage children.

The verification process involves either adding a credit card (debit cards are not eligible) to the Apple Account or scanning a driver's license or national ID, as reported by Daily Mail. Users must ensure they are in a well-lit place for successful ID scanning. Ofcom has described Apple's new measures as a 'real win for children and families,' highlighting that the UK will be one of the first countries to receive such protections on devices.

However, critics like Silkie Carlo, director of Big Brother Watch, have called the measures 'outrageous' and 'draconian.' As reported by The Guardian, Carlo stated that Apple has put a 'chokehold on Britons' freedom to search the internet,' requiring sensitive ID documents for access. The BBC also noted her concerns, describing the update as 'more like ransomware,' leaving millions of Brits with a 'child's device' unless they comply.

The new checks come amid wider industry debates over protecting young people from harmful online content. As reported by BBC, the UK government is trialing a test to disable social apps for teens and consulting on making it illegal for under-16s to access many social media sites, following Australia's example.