How to choose which apps your child can use when setting up an iPhone in iOS 27

Parents setting up an iPhone for a child can choose which apps are available from the start in iOS 27, making it possible to begin with a smaller and more focused selection.

Apple provides options to start with only a few essential apps, use a recommended starter selection or choose the apps a parent considers appropriate. More apps can then be introduced over time as needed.

The controls form part of the setup experience for children using a Child Account and work alongside features such as Ask to Buy and Screen Time.

How to choose which apps your child can use in iOS 27

1. Begin setting up the iPhone your child will use.
2. Sign in with your child’s Child Account when prompted.
3. Continue through Setup Assistant until you reach the options for allowed apps.
4. Choose whether to begin with essential apps, Apple’s recommended starter selection or a custom selection.
5. Select the apps you want your child to be able to access.
6. Continue through Setup Assistant to finish configuring the iPhone.

You can expand your child’s access later rather than having to make every decision during setup. Other parental controls can also be adjusted as your child gets older.