How to Set Apple TV Parental Controls? – Applying Necessary Restrictions on Movies, Shows, iTunes, and Other Features

Gaurav Rathore
Gaurav Rathore

Tech Writer

His write-ups blend creativity, personal experience, and tailored technical advice, meeting reader needs effectively.

Reviewed ByBrandon Powers
4 min read

Like any other popular streaming platform, Apple TV+ also needs a few restrictions if your kids are using it. Even though there are no built-in options, the app allows you to restrict all mature content and features.

With this blog, I’ll help you set the essential Apple TV parental controls and make the platform safe for your kids.

Quick Answer: To set Apple TV parental controls, go to Settings >> General >> Restrictions. Then, set the restrictions on features, apps, and activities.

How to Set Apple TV Parental Controls?

Regardless of the version you’ve been using, you get the same settings on Apple TV. However, make sure that you’ve installed the latest software, and then follow these steps:

Notes

The steps mentioned below are performed on an Apple TV, but they’ll be the same on the web version of the platform.

  • Open Settings.
    Open-Settings
  • Click General.
    General
  • Open Restrictions.
    Restriction
  • Then, you’ll see the options for iTUNES STORE and ALLOWED CONTENT, but they’ll be inaccessible. Click on Restrictions again to change the settings on Apple TV. 
    Restriction1
  • Enter a four-digit passcode and re-enter it to confirm.
    passcode
  • Now, go to each option one by one and click on it to change the setting. For example, click on Purchase and Rental, and it will change from Allow to Restrict.
    Change Purchase and Rental Restrict Purchase and Rental
  • Set the restrictions accordingly for other options. Then, navigate to Movies under ALLOWED CONTENT.
    Movies
  • Now, Restrict movies as per the ratings shown.
    PG
  • Similarly, do it for Apps.
    Apps

Apple TV allows you to restrict the apps, features, and content that you may find inappropriate for your children’s age. The table below mentions all the available options for restrictions and their purpose.

App/Feature/ActivityOptions You GetRestrictions Applied
iTunes StoreAllow, Block, and RestrictNew app downloads and installations from the store.
Music and PodcastsAsk, Clean, and ExplicitFilters explicit content.
Movies, TV Shows, and AppsHide/ShowBlocks explicit content according to the rating.
Siri Explicit LanguageHide/ShowFilters/Blocks explicit language.
Purchases & RentalsAsk/HideAll purchases and rentals will require the passcode.
AirPlay SettingsAsk/HideRestricts any changes.
Conference Room Display SettingsHideRestricts the access.
Multiplayer Games and Screen RecordingYes/NoRestricts the feature.
Location Services, TV Provider, App PairingAllow/RestrictRestricts the feature.

Also, note that Apple TVs with 2nd and 3rd generation have the ‘Hide/Ask’ option whereas, the 4th generation ones have ‘Hide/Restrict’ for the same purpose.

How to Set Content Restrictions on Apple TV Using an iPhone?

As you can even control Apple TV with your phone, applying restrictions to mature content is still possible. Follow these steps on your child’s iPhone:

  • Open Settings and tap Screen Time.
    Screen Time1
  • Then, tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and turn it on.
    Content & Privacy Restrictions
  • Tap Content Restrictions.
    Content restrictions
  • Then, you’ll get the same options as on your Apple TV; tap the ones that need to be restricted, and you’re all set.
    Content-Restrictions-on-an-iPhone

Also, when using a Mac, go to System Settings >> Screen Time >> Contents & Privacy >> Stores. There, set restrictions on the shows and movies according to the content rating.

How to Change Your Apple TV Parental Control Passcode?

If your kids somehow got to know the passcode for changing the Apple TV setting, you can change it back by following these steps:

  • Go to Settings >> General >> Restrictions.
  • Enter your current passcode.
    Enter the current code
  • Under PARENTAL CONTROLS, click Change Passcode.
    Change Password
  • Enter the current code and then the updated passcode.
    new passcode

Renter the same passcode, and you’re all set.

Final Thoughts

With Apple TV logged in, your kids can enjoy movies and shows that they like. However, as a parent, I believe, you must set a few restrictions to make sure that they don’t engage in anything inappropriate for their age.

In fact, your job doesn’t end here, you must communicate with your kids and keep an eye on what kind of content they’re consuming.

FAQs

Are there parental controls on Apple TV?

There’s no specific option, but you can set restrictions on apps, features, and activities.

Can you limit Screen Time on Apple TV?

No, no feature allows you to set a time limit. It’s better to use third-party apps.

Can you put a parental lock on Apple TV?

Yes, you can set a 4-digit code to keep the Apple TV settings secure.

Related Posts