Apple introduces age verification for apps in Utah, Louisiana and Australia

Source: Engadget

Background

Apple has begun blocking users under 18 in certain regions from downloading apps and has introduced new age verification tools. These tools are intended to help developers meet age‑assurance obligations under upcoming US and regional laws, including those in Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana, as announced in a news release on Apple’s Developer site.

New Age Verification Tools

• Declared Age Range API – Available on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, this API provides “helpful signals” about a user’s age. Developers can use it to confirm that users are adults when required.
• The API can also indicate whether age‑related regulatory requirements apply to a user, whether the user must share their age range, and if parental or guardian permission is needed for significant app updates.

Regional Implementation

• Australia, Brazil, and Singapore (effective February 24 2026) – Users cannot download apps rated 18+ unless their age is confirmed through “reasonable methods.” In Brazil, any app declared to contain loot boxes will be re‑rated to 18+.
• Utah (effective May 6 2026) – Age categories will be shared with the developer’s app when requested via the Declared Age Range API. Under Utah law, users must be over 18 to create a new App Store account; under‑age users must link their account to a parent’s account to obtain permission for certain apps.
• Louisiana (effective July 1 2026) – Similar age‑verification requirements apply, with age categories shared through the API.
• Other jurisdictions – Texas has passed comparable legislation, and California plans to enact age‑based rules for app stores in 2027.

Criticism

Critics argue that these laws are blunt tools that can harm privacy and internet anonymity. The Electronic Frontier Foundation notes that a poorly designed system could store personal data and correlate it with online content, potentially exposing intimate details when cross‑referenced with other information. See the discussion on the impact of age‑verification laws in this Engadget article and the EFF’s analysis of privacy risks.