Apple and Google may soon require age verification before exchanging nude photos on iPhone and Android
Apple and Google are considering requiring users to verify their age before they can send or receive nude photos on iPhone and Android devices. The proposed change is intended to protect minors and reduce the spread of sexually explicit content among underage users.
Tech giants Apple and Google are reportedly planning to introduce new age verification measures before users can send or receive nude photos on their iPhone and Android devices. The move is aimed at strengthening protection for minors and reducing the risk of explicit content being exchanged without proper safeguards.
Under the proposed changes, users may be asked to confirm their age using biometric data, identity documents or other trusted methods before they can access features that allow the sharing of sexually explicit images. The objective is to ensure that adults can communicate freely while reducing potential harm to children and teenagers.
The discussions come amid broader concerns about online safety and tech companies’ responsibilities in preventing exploitation and abuse. Platforms already face pressure from regulators, child protection advocates and governments to put stronger safety nets in place and prevent minors from encountering harmful material.
Although details are still emerging, officials from both companies are said to be evaluating the technical and privacy implications of age verification. They will need to balance protecting young users with maintaining user privacy and avoiding misuse of sensitive data. Tech observers note that implementing such systems could involve new software features or updates to operating systems that prompt age checks at relevant moments.
Supporters of the idea say that clear age verification steps could act as a deterrent to minors attempting to share or receive explicit images. Critics, however, caution that the systems must be designed carefully to avoid privacy invasions or inaccurate verification outcomes that could block legitimate adult use.
If adopted, the new measures could become part of broader safety updates on iOS and Android platforms. Apple and Google have previously introduced tools aimed at preventing child exploitation and reducing exposure to harmful content, and these proposals would build on that ongoing effort.
Users should expect more announcements in the coming months as the companies refine their plans and potentially launch pilot versions of the age verification feature in future software updates. The initiative underscores growing focus by major tech firms on protecting vulnerable users while balancing safety with user experience.