Apple is not required to implement age checks under U.K. law, as the Online Safety Act does not apply to app stores or operating systems. Ofcom is conducting a report on whether to expand the act to include them, due in January 2027.
Users who choose to update to the latest software, iOS 26.4 for iPhones and iPads, are prompted to verify their age, and can use credit cards linked to accounts as proof or undergo a process to scan ID. Apple may also use the length of time a user has held the account as proof of their age.
The requirements have also been rolled out in South Korea.