Apple iOS has released a new update for parental control in messages

An upcoming update to Apple iOS will allow parents to protect their children and help them navigate online messages. The second beta for developer iOS 15 (iOS 15.2) supports new communication security features in messages.

With this update, Apple Messages can use on-device machine learning to analyze attached images. And determine if the shared photo is sexually unique. This technology does not need Apple to access or read a child’s private messages because all processing is done on the device. “This is a family sharing feature that parents can follow,” the report said.

If a sensitive photo is found in the message thread, the picture will be blocked. And a label will show under the photo that says “This may be sensitive” with a link to click to view the photo. When a child wants to view the photo. They will see another screen with more information about the sensitive photo and video.

The new messaging tool comes against a child safety feature that Apple has postponed following negative feedback. Planned features include iCloud Certified Software Asset Manager (CSAM) searches of user materials, communication security to alert children also their parents when they receive or send sexually explicit photos, and expand CSAM guidelines on Siri search.

Apple confirmed that feedback from customers, nonprofits and advocacy groups, researchers.

And others about the plan had delayed the company from giving the company time to improve. Following its announcement, the feature has been criticized by various people and organizations. Including security researcher, whistleblower Edward Joseph Snowden, former Facebook security chief, politicians, and others.

Since then, Apple has tried to clear up misunderstandings and reassure consumers by posting detailed information.Sharing frequently asked questions, new documents, interviews with company executives, and more.

The child safety feature pack was initially supposed to be introduced in the US. United States with iOS 15. iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, also macOS Monterey updates. It’s not clear when Apple plans to release the “critical” feature.