Overview
- The Prince and Princess of Wales published an official portrait by Matt Porteous and a short family video to mark George’s 13th birthday on July 22, 2026.
- Kensington Palace has confirmed that George will begin at Eton College in September, where he is expected to board near the family home in Windsor and remain under close protection.
- Both the parents and Eton limit smartphone access for first-year pupils, and William has said George will not get a smartphone though a basic call-and-text 'brick' phone is likely.
- George has taken a slowly growing public role this year with appearances at events such as Trooping the Colour, Wimbledon and charity and RAF visits as his parents introduce duties gradually.
- The portrait and video reflect William and Kate’s strategy to balance institutional preparation for succession with a protected, as-normal-as-possible childhood while managing media exposure.