Apps gone due to restrictions after dowloading iOS 26

I just installed iOS 26 and now almost half of my apps are gone due to them being restricted. I've tried going into my settings and turning the restrictions off, but they are still restricted. I am underage but my parents don't have iPhones and they use Verizon Family Companion to restrict my apps. However, it only restricts apps that are 18+. After the update, I cant even use apps that are 12+ and I think that's ridiculous. Is there any way I can get my apps back?

iPhone 16, iOS 26

Posted on Sep 23, 2025 1:56 PM

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Mac Jim ID

Level 9

60,302 points

Posted on Sep 23, 2025 3:55 PM

Since the Verizon Family Companion uses a VPN to ensure device restrictions, I can only assume it is the VPN that does not allow you to change your Age Rating in Screen Time to allow the apps shown as excluded. You can check with Verizon on the usage of Family Companion here:

https://www.verizon.com/support/verizon-family/

I will also include the contact number for Apple, but any restrictions placed on your device through a third party service is not something Apple can resolve.

Contact Apple Support - Apple Support

There have been changes in both age restrictions and VPN connectivity in iOS 26.

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31 replies

Mac Jim ID

Level 9

60,302 points

Dec 10, 2025 5:49 PM in response to liabres24

liabres24 wrote:

https://discussions.apple.com/content/attachment/b5763dde-b42d-4372-b6a6-fd707b1c834b

https://discussions.apple.com/content/attachment/d734c6ae-1dac-449e-9705-561ea806a690

https://discussions.apple.com/content/attachment/65c22b69-7298-46c6-915d-0e479ceba057

Are you part of a Family Sharing group? If so, it is the Organizers settings they have made on your account that makes the difference. When using both on device and Organizers settings, the most restrictive setting will be applied. It is certainly possible that you don't have anything on your device in Screen Time, where the Organizers settings are being applied. I would recommend to leave the Family Sharing group and try again. As long as the age on your account is over 13, that should not be a problem.

Apps gone due to restrictions after dowloading iOS 26