Apple has introduced age verification in the iOS 26.4 beta, but only for UK users so far. The feature appears as a new section at the top of Settings labeled "Confirm You Are 18+" after updating to the beta. Tapping through takes users to a screen offering the fastest verification process imaginable.

From tapping Continue to completing Face ID verification, the entire process takes under two seconds for most users. Apple explains this speed by noting that verification relies on "the length of time you have had an Apple account" or a registered credit card. The system checks any payment method associated with your Apple Account, explaining that "a valid credit card can help confirm you're at least 18 because you must be an adult to open a credit card account."

This implementation differs from the UK's Online Safety Act requirements for adult websites. Instead, it's an extension of existing parental controls that limit children to age-appropriate apps on iPhone. The age-verification APIs will eventually be exposed to websites, though that hasn't happened yet. Users can choose "Confirm Later," but there's no apparent advantage since the process is so streamlined. Apple's approach contrasts sharply with the complex verification methods required by adult websites under the same law, which can involve AI-powered photo analysis to estimate user age.