Starting with iOS 18.2, Apple is adding a feature that lets children in Australia report iMessages containing nudity. This new feature, according to Apple, allows children to flag inappropriate photos or videos, helping to create a safer messaging environment for young users.
How the Reporting Feature Works
When a child reports a message containing nudity, their device creates a report that includes the inappropriate image or video, the conversation immediately before and after it, and the contact details for both the sender and receiver. Users can also fill out a form describing the incident. Apple reviews these reports and may take action, such as suspending the sender’s Apple Account or involving law enforcement if necessary.
Why Apple Introduced This Feature
This feature follows new Australian regulations requiring tech companies to improve efforts to prevent child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on their platforms by the end of 2024. Apple plans to eventually roll out the nudity reporting option worldwide, although a specific timeline has not been provided.
Expanding on Communication Safety Features
This nudity reporting option builds on Apple’s Communication Safety feature, launched in 2021 in the United States with iOS 15.2. Initially focused on warning children when they receive or send images containing nudity, the feature expanded globally with iOS 17 and is enabled by default for children under 13 in Family Sharing groups.
The Communication Safety feature works using on-device processing, ensuring children’s privacy while they receive warnings about inappropriate content. It also extends to other Apple services, including AirDrop, FaceTime video messages, and Contact Posters within the Phone app. Parents have the option to turn this feature off in the Screen Time settings on their child’s device.
Abandoning the CSAM Detection Plan for iCloud Photos
The addition of this new reporting feature comes after Apple dropped its 2022 plan to scan iCloud Photos for known CSAM, a move that received significant public criticism over privacy concerns.
iOS 18.2 Beta and Release Timeline
The first beta version of iOS 18.2 was released recently for devices that support Apple Intelligence, such as iPhone 15 Pro models and newer iPhones. The official public release of iOS 18.2 is expected in December.
Conclusion
Apple’s new nudity reporting option in iOS 18.2 represents a step forward in online safety for young users, aligning with regulatory expectations and Apple’s commitment to privacy. With future global expansion in mind, this feature could help parents feel more secure about their children’s digital interactions while respecting user privacy through on-device processing.