As governments around the world introduce stricter rules to protect children online, Apple Inc. has announced a major update to its platforms.
The company is rolling out new age-verification tools designed to help app developers follow growing child safety regulations.
These tools aim to ensure that apps meant for adults are not easily accessed by minors, while also helping developers comply with new laws in different countries.
Apple Introduces New Age-Verification System
The key part of this update is an improved Declared Age Range API, which is currently available in beta testing.
This system allows apps to identify the age category of a user and also receive signals about how that age was verified.
Developers can then decide whether certain features or content should be available to that user.
According to Apple, the update is meant to help developers meet new age-verification rules and child safety requirements being introduced in several regions.
Stricter Rules Coming in Multiple Countries
Starting February 24, 2026, users in countries such as Australia, Brazil, and Singapore will face stricter restrictions on downloading certain apps.
For example, apps rated 18+ will not be downloadable unless the user’s adult status is confirmed.
In Brazil, developers must also disclose if their apps include loot boxes.
If they do, those apps may automatically receive an 18+ age rating in the local app store.
In the United States, similar rules will start appearing at the state level.
New requirements will take effect in Utah on May 6, 2026, and in Louisiana on July 1, 2026.
Under these rules, developers may also need to get parental consent for certain app updates or features.
New Tools for App Developers
To help developers follow these regulations, Apple has expanded its developer toolkit with several new tools.
These include:
Declared Age Range API for identifying user age categories
Significant Change API under PermissionKit to notify users about major app updates
A new age rating property in StoreKit
App Store Server Notifications to track regulatory compliance
Developers will also need to provide clear explanations of major updates and follow Apple’s interface guidelines when notifying users about important changes.
A Growing Focus on Online Safety
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