iOS Parental Features

Previously, we have established what parental controls are, the types of controls available and the benefits of using them. Now, we can explore the specific features across a variety of operating systems. First up, iOS.

iOS, an operating system created by Apple, is available on iPhone, iPad and some iPod Touch models. iOS offers a variety of parental controls, allowing different levels of control over what content your child can access.

At Mobile Phones Direct, we want to help make it as easy as possible to set up parental controls on your child’s iOS devices. That’s why we have created a step-by-step guide on setting up controls to ensure your child’s online activity is safe and secure.

A summary of the parental controls available on iOS

Parental control features, commonly known as Restrictions on iOS, allow users to block or limit specific features and apps on your Apple device.

Restrictions can be accessed through the Settings menu, allowing limits on more than 15 iOS specific apps and features, including: Safari, Camera, iTunes Store, FaceTime, installing and deleting apps and in-app purchases. A full list can be found on Apple’s website.

Parents are also able to restrict content by age rating, block explicit language and block websites, as well as control what private information is shared, such as Location Services and data use.

Please note, Restrictions applies mostly to Apple apps and features. Some third party apps (with restrictions to Facebook and Twitter) may require the user to input their own privacy settings via the individual app.

A step by step guide for setting up parental controls on iOS

Setting up parental controls via Restrictions is a simple and easy process which can be done in a matter of minutes.

To set up Restrictions, you will need to create a passcode – stopping your children and anyone else who has access to the device from changing any of the Restrictions set. Once the passcode has been created, you will be presented with a list of apps and features which you can restrict.

*Top Tip – Apps and features with a GREEN toggle are RESTRICTED apps/features. Those with a GREY toggle are NOT RESTRICTED*

How to set up parental controls for iOS apps and features

To set up parental controls for Safari, Camera, AirPlay, CarPlay, Facetime, Siri, iTunes, iBooks, Apple Music and App Store, simply follow the steps below.

• 1. Launch the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
• 2. Tap on General.
• 3. Tap on Restrictions.
• 4. Enter your Restrictions passcode.
• 5. You will now be presented with a list of apps and features that can be disabled. To disable, tap the toggle next to the desired app so the toggle appears GREEN. This now RESTRICTED.

How to set up restrictions on Music, Podcasts & News, Movies, TV Shows and Apps by age ratings

iOS allows users to block content by age rating, meaning your child won’t be able to access age-inappropriate music, videos, films and TV shows. As your child grows, you’ll be able to change the age rating accordingly.

Before setting your age restriction, first you will have to choose a country. This doesn’t have to be the country that you currently live in, but it’s sensible to set it to your current country. To do this, follow the simple steps below:

If you have followed some, or all, of the steps included in our guide, your child will be safer when using their iOS device. As your child grows older, don’t forget to change the ratings or apps and features to ones that you feel are suitable.

Does your child also have access to an Android device or Nintendo Switch console? We also have guides on how to keep your child safe with those too.