Apple is bolstering its age verification systems for the App Store in several regions, including Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana, as new regulations surrounding app access come into effect. The company announced , updates to its Declared Age Range API and other tools designed to help developers comply with evolving age assurance obligations.
New Restrictions for 18+ Apps
Starting , Apple will prevent users in Australia, Brazil, and Singapore from downloading apps rated 18+ unless their age has been verified as being over 18 through “reasonable methods.” Apple states the App Store will automatically handle this verification, but developers are still responsible for independently confirming user ages where necessary. The Declared Age Range API is positioned as a key tool to assist with this process.
Declared Age Range API Updates
The Declared Age Range API, now available in beta for testing on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, allows developers to obtain a user’s age category. In Brazil, this functionality is particularly nuanced. Age categories will only be shared with developers if the user, or a parent or guardian (where applicable), explicitly consents. The API will also provide developers with information about the method used to assure the user’s age.
Beyond simply providing an age category, the API now offers additional signals. Developers can determine if age-related regulatory requirements apply to a specific user and whether the user is required to share their age range. Crucially, the API will also indicate if parental permission is needed for significant app updates for users identified as children.
Loot Boxes Trigger Automatic 18+ Rating in Brazil
Apple is also implementing a specific rule for apps in Brazil related to loot boxes. If a developer identifies their app as containing loot boxes during the age rating questionnaire process, the app will automatically receive an 18+ rating on the Brazil App Store. What we have is a direct response to growing concerns about the potential for gambling-like mechanics within games and their impact on younger players.
Expanding Compliance Tools to US States
The changes aren’t limited to international markets. Apple is extending its age assurance tools to Utah and Louisiana, with phased rollouts beginning , for new Apple Accounts in Utah and , in Louisiana. In these states, age categories will be shared with developers when requested through the Declared Age Range API. Apple is also providing access to several other tools to aid in compliance, including the Significant Change API (under PermissionKit), a new age rating property type in StoreKit, and App Store Server Notifications.
Significant App Updates and Parental Permissions
The Significant Change API, currently in beta, allows developers to present notifications about significant app updates to adult users in Utah, and Louisiana. When releasing such an update, developers are required to adhere to Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines and provide a clear description of the changes. This is designed to ensure transparency and allow adults to make informed decisions about app updates, particularly those that might alter the app’s functionality or content.
Developer Resources
Apple is providing developers with a range of resources to help them navigate these new requirements. These include documentation for the Declared Age Range API, the Significant Change API, the new age rating property in StoreKit, and App Store Server Notifications. An Age Assurance frameworks Q&A is also available, alongside design guidelines for creating safe and age-appropriate experiences within apps and games.
These updates represent a significant shift in how Apple handles age verification on the App Store, driven by increasing regulatory pressure and a growing awareness of the need to protect younger users. While Apple is automating much of the verification process, developers will still play a crucial role in ensuring compliance and providing age-appropriate experiences.
