Apple Expands Age Verification Tools, Blocks 18-Plus App Downloads in Select Regions

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Apple is expanding its age verification systems to comply with new legal requirements, blocking downloads of 18-plus apps in Australia, Brazil, and Singapore unless a user’s age has been confirmed. The changes, announced by Apple, are designed to help developers meet age assurance obligations under upcoming laws in the United States and other regions.

In Australia, Brazil, and Singapore, users will not be able to download apps rated 18-plus unless their age has been verified through what Apple describes as “reasonable methods.” The App Store can confirm age automatically in these cases. Apple notes that developers may still have separate legal obligations to independently verify that users are adults.

Age categories shared with apps in Utah and Louisiana

Apple also said that new Apple Account users in Utah beginning May 6th and in Louisiana beginning July 1st will have their age categories shared with developers when requested through Apple’s Declared Age Range API. The API, introduced last year, allows developers to request age range information rather than a user’s exact birthdate.

Under the updated system, developers can receive additional signals through the API, including whether age-related regulatory requirements apply to a user and whether the user is required to share their age range. The API will also indicate if parental or guardian consent is required for significant app updates involving a child.

Developers retain compliance responsibility

Apple positions these tools as infrastructure to help developers comply with regional age verification laws, but the company makes clear that legal responsibility may extend beyond App Store checks. Even where the App Store confirms age for download restrictions, developers could still be required by local law to conduct their own verification.

The updates reflect the growing spread of age verification mandates across multiple jurisdictions, placing additional compliance obligations on app platforms and developers operating in those regions.

Also Read: Google AI Can Guess Your Age and Restrict Your Account

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