Bit of a left-field PSA this, but… if you own an iPhone/iPad in the UK and:
- you DON'T own a credit card
- you DON'T have a driving license
- you have NOT had your Apple account for more than 18 years
…don't upgrade to iOS 26.4 if you want to install (or some cases, use) 17+ rated apps or stream 18+ films/tv on itvX, netflix, etc.
The update adds mandatory OS-level age verification to meet UK law and Apple doesn't currently accept passports (!) to prove age.
I'm not sharing this to argue the merits/flaws in the Online Safety Act or similar legislation as a general point or Apple complying – it has to; it's law – but signpost a specific real-world edge case…
I don't drive, and I've never owned a credit card. Suddenly that makes me 17 again (hurrah),
While it's always flattering when people assume I'm younger than I am, it's rather unfunny to be unable to use apps or services I pay for...
My understanding, FWIW, is that there is no such law currently on the UK statute book, nor imminently about to be on the UK statute book, and Apple are simply lying when they say UK law requires it.
@only_ohm My bad; perhaps I'm inferring it's a requirement, when it's just Apple ass-covering.
The fact OFCOM is giving quotes to the press about how pleased they are to see the age gating arrive, I assumed it was part and parcel of the OSA, compliance for which is overseen by OFCOM.
Either way, it's frustrating.
omg! ubuntu
Dan Hatton