Apple’s new safety features block violent content, give parents final say over kids' contacts

Apple

Apple is upgrading its Communication Safety feature this fall to block gore and violent content in shared images and videos, expanding on a tool that already automatically blurs nudity in Messages and FaceTime for users under 18. Under the updated system, parents will also gain tighter control over their children's circles, allowing them to require explicit parental approval before kids can connect with or message any new contacts. 

The upgrade arrives as part of a broader child safety suite previewed by Apple, aimed at helping parents manage what content their kids see, who they talk to, and when they can use specific apps.

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Apple requires parental approval for kids texting new numbers

Source: Apple

Parents using Apple devices will have greater control over who their children can talk to on their devices. One of the new updates to its child safety features requires kids to ask their parents for approval before texting new numbers. Parents will get the request through their Messages app.

Additionally, Apple is rolling out PermissionKit to enable developers to create a similar feature in their app that will allow kids to "send requests to their parents to chat, follow, or friend users."

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iOS 17 brings new stickers features to Messages

GIF: Apple

Apple also announced another major update to its Messages app in iOS 17. This time, the focus is on stickers. Stickers are now integrated into the emoji keyboard, making them easier to use in any app that supports them. You can also create your stickers from photos with a simple tap-and-hold gesture that lets them cut out any subject from an image. These custom stickers can be enhanced with effects and animations. You can even turn Live Photos into Live Stickers. 

Live Stickers are a new way to express yourself with moving images that capture the mood and personality of your friends and family. You can access all your stickers from a new drawer on the keyboard. 

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