iOS 26.4 Requires ID for UK Users: Apple's First in Europe

Apple is rolling out mandatory age verification for iPhone and iPad users in the UK as part of iOS 26.4. If you want to download age-restricted apps or turn off web content filters, you'll need to prove you're an adult. Options include scanning a credit card, a driver's license, or in some cases, Apple just uses your existing account info if it's old enough to be obviously adult.

If you don't verify, web content filters stay on automatically. That means no age-restricted features, content or apps. Communication safety features also kick in, blurring nude images in messages and FaceTime calls, and children under 13 can't create an account without a guardian joining a Family Sharing group.

Why Now

The UK's Online Safety Act. The law already requires adult sites to verify ages for UK visitors. Now it's extending to the device level.

The Pushback

The problem is that requiring ID to use basic phone features sets a precedent. Apple says it doesn't store your ID unless you choose to save it for other purposes, but the data still exists somewhere, and not everyone has a credit card or driver's license.

The UK is the first European country to get this. Australia has similar prompts in beta, and Apple's support page says verification options vary by country. Who's next?