Apple Broadens Age-Verification Tools as Global Rules Tighten
In Focus
- Apple’s Declared Age Range API is available to developers in beta
- The API allows developers to determine users’ age bracket
- Apple is rolling out the new tools abroad and in selected U.S. states
Apple has taken a major step to comply with age-verification rules in the U.S. and other countries abroad. According to TechCrunch, the tech giant is introducing new tools that will keep underage users from downloading apps rated 18+ in Singapore, Brazil and Australia. Apple’s age verification tools are also rolling out in the states of Louisiana and Utah within the U.S.
Developers Can Determine Age Bracket of Users
On February 24, 2026, the iPhone maker informed developers that an updated version of Apple’s Declared Age Range API was available in beta. The API allows developers to determine the age bracket of users without accessing personal details like name and birth date.
In Brazil, developers can now use the API to receive users’ age classification if parents or guardians agree to share the details. Apple is also introducing new download restrictions in Australia, where an under-16 social media ban is already in effect.
Beginning this week, users in these countries will not be able to install apps rated 18+ unless they verify their age. Apple said that the App Store will handle the confirmation process automatically, though developers remain responsible for complying with any additional legal obligations.
Apple’s child protection tools are rolling out as governments in multiple countries pass legislation to limit access to social media to adults 18 and older. The tech company is also complying with age verification laws in the U.S. at a time when it is facing a CSAM lawsuit in West Virginia. The company has been accused of failing to prevent the storage and sharing of child sexual abuse material in its iCloud services and iOS devices.
Apple Enhances Compliance in U.S. States
In Utah and Louisiana, new users will soon have their age categories shared with developers via the Declared Age Range API. Apple says it has improved its suite of age-rating and parental-permission tools to align with regulatory requirements.
“New signals are now available through the Declared Age Range API, including whether age-related regulatory requirements apply to the user and if the user is required to share their age range. The API will also let you know if you need to get a parent or guardian’s permission for significant app updates for a child,” the company said.
Apple blocks 18+ apps by age amid mounting legal scrutiny over the use of end-to-end encryption in its devices and iCloud service.
Apple’s Previous Age-Verification Efforts
This is not the first time that Apple has taken steps to verify user age. In October 2025, the tech company adjusted its systems to address age-verification rules in Texas. However, the company paused some of the measures in December 2025 amid legal challenges.
Last year, Apple refined its age-rating structure and expanded the questionnaire that developers complete when submitting apps for review.
