Apple has announced new age verification features designed to meet growing legal requirements in several countries and US states.
The updates focus on preventing underage users from downloading apps meant only for adults, where local laws require stricter checks.
In Australia, Brazil, and Singapore, users will no longer be able to download apps rated 18 plus unless their age has been confirmed through what Apple calls reasonable verification methods. The App Store can handle this confirmation automatically. However, Apple notes that developers may still have their own legal responsibility to independently verify that users are adults.
To support developers, Apple is expanding its Declared Age Range API, which it introduced last year. This tool allows app makers to request age range information about users. Developers can use this data to help comply with age-related rules in different regions.
Apple is also making changes in certain US states. For new Apple Account users in Utah starting May 6th and in Louisiana starting July 1st, age categories can be shared directly with developers when requested through the Declared Age Range API.
The company is adding new signals to the API as well. Developers will be able to see whether specific age-related regulatory requirements apply to a user and whether the user must share their age range. The system will also notify developers if they need to obtain parental or guardian permission before rolling out significant app updates for a child user.
If this article helped you, please consider supporting our work. Every small contribution keeps Abijita.com independent and running.
With governments around the world introducing stricter online safety and age assurance laws, Apple’s new tools aim to help developers stay compliant while limiting access to adult content where required.
