Apple to delay launch of controversial new child safety features

Apple has made a major announcement regarding its new child safety features for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, which included iMessage warnings that would alert children and parents when a sexually explicit image is sent or received on a device connected to iCloud Family Sharing, automatic blurring of explicit images sent in Messages, Child Sexual Abuse Material, CSAM detection when explicit images are detected in a user’s iCloud Photos library, and more.

In a statement on Friday, Apple has said it will be delaying the launch of its controversial new tools following feedback from customers, advocacy groups, researchers and others.

Apple says it will now take additional time over the coming months to collect input and make improvements before launching the new features.

Last month we announced plans for features intended to help protect children from predators who use communication tools to recruit and exploit them, and limit the spread of Child Sexual Abuse Material. Based on feedback from customers, advocacy groups, researchers and others, we have decided to take additional time over the coming months to collect input and make improvements before releasing these critically important child safety features.

Apple had originally planned to launch its safety features in the US later this year with iOS 15.