Apple'S New Age Verification Tools Go Global

Apple Tightens App Store Regulations for 18+ Content

In a significant move, Apple is expanding its age verification tools to more regions as part of new App Store restrictions for apps rated 18 and up. These changes are first being implemented in key markets including parts of the United States, Brazil, Australia, and Singapore. The goal? Ensuring that only adults can access certain apps, maintaining compliance with local laws and increasing content responsibility on developers.

The new regulations mean users in these countries will be restricted from downloading 18+ apps unless Apple can confirm their age using approved methods. Apple states that the App Store will handle these checks automatically, but developers may also need to integrate age verification within their own apps. To aid this process, Apple has rolled out updates to its Declared Age Range API, now available in beta for testing.

“Today we’re providing an update on the tools available for developers to meet their age assurance obligations under upcoming U.S. and regional laws, including in Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana.”

Country-Specific Implementation

Different countries have different nuances in implementing these age verification measures. For example, in Brazil, developers using the Declared Age Range API can access user age information if consent is given by the user, parent, or guardian. Furthermore, apps featuring loot boxes are automatically reclassified to an 18+ rating, reflecting stricter content guidelines.

In the United States, Apple is rolling out these changes on a state-by-state basis. Utah and Louisiana are among the first states to require verified age for new Apple accounts, with Utah implementing this from May 6 and Louisiana from July 1. The updated API empowers developers to identify age-related rules and determine when parental approval is necessary for significant app updates.

These measures highlight Apple's efforts to tighten control over adult content, simultaneously providing developers with clearer guidelines to stay compliant with international standards.