Apple declared the expansion of iPhone and iPad child protection features to enhance current security solutions and deploy fresh functions for child protection according to the German News Agency.
The new functions will help protect children during Internet browsing without compromising their privacy according to Apple.
Apple plans to streamline child account setup in an expedited manner so parents can verify their approval through their existing Apple account payment card.
According to Apple children can browse only child-oriented internet content following their independent device setup. Children have access to Notes to create drawings as well as Pages and Keynote to handle their homework tasks. To access more App Store apps or other services kids must get parental consent before completing the setup procedure.
Do not disclose sensitive data
The child protection system permits parents to authorize applications by not showing exact birth dates or sensitive data. Application developers used to request users to send digital photos of ID cards to authenticate child age before granting access to suitable content. This was for child protection reasons.
As Apple stated this measure would compromise the security and privacy standards Apple provides users.
API
An API tool specifically designed for age verification enables developers to check child users' ages without disclosing their privacy-sensitive details to developers while allowing parents to manage their information.
The App Store will soon deliver enhanced app awareness through updated product pages that reveal if content or advertisements originate from users or come from advertisements when these elements may present material inappropriate for children.
The Apple App Store editorial section hides apps which exceed age restrictions as identified by parents while developers through their app profiles show if they need child protection features and age verification.
New age groups
Apple previously operated four child protection age divisions of 4+ and 9+ and 12+ and 17+ however they now plan to expand these groups to five categories which include 4+ along with 9+, 13+, 16+ and 18+. The purpose of the new age classification groups is to provide parents with better information about child-friendly apps.
The child protection features offered by Apple will function optimally when children operate their own devices. The iPad sharing method with unified parental account access provides restricted protection because it prohibits installing unsuitable apps for children.
The maximum usage time control can be activated through password protection yet this implementation requires parents to safeguard the password from everyone else.
