- Age verification is being rolled out for iOS and iPadOS users in the UK
- Some users are having trouble getting the ID or validating it
- Another option is to refuse to install the iOS 26.4 / iPadOS 26.4 update
Apple has caused a storm of confusion and controversy with its decision to remove age verification in the UK with iOS 26.4 and iPadOS 26.4 – and a large number of users are having problems proving their age.
If you’re a UK user and you’re installing the iOS 26.4 or iPadOS 26.4 update, you’ll be met with a message asking you to prove you’re over 18, with one exception: people who already have credit cards on file (these can only be issued to adults), and those who’ve had their Apple account for over 18 years.
For now, notifications can be turned off (you can also find it in Settings), but that probably won’t last forever. The two authentication methods Apple supports are credit card scans (not debit cards) and photo driver’s license scans, but as 9to5Mac reports, there are many people who don’t have either.
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Even for those who can provide a card or ID, the process appears to be flawed, and fails frequently. As per the answer provided by 9to5Mac, you can try waiting longer (about 10 seconds) for the scan to be accepted, add a credit card to Apple Wallet, or restart your phone and try the process again if you have a problem.
Stops the update
Although Apple has not clearly said why the age test was introduced, there is a growing push in the UK and around the world for child safety protections to be built into phones and apps. Adult websites operating in the UK are required by law to verify the age of users, although until now this has not been managed at the device level.
Although the UK regulator Ofcom welcomed the move, the reaction from users was less than impressed, as the release was characterized as “stupid” and “stupid”. There is also growing concern that these types of restrictions will be extended to developed countries and devices over time.
You have the option to decline the update for iOS 26.4 or iPadOS 26.4: From Settings, tap General > Software Update and turn off Automatic updates. However, that also means you won’t get the latest software features or security updates from Apple, so it’s rarely recommended in the long run.
As well as keeping schtum about the age verification rollout, Apple hasn’t said anything about what people who don’t have a credit card or UK driving license have to do to get verified – but hopefully we’ll get official guidance soon.
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