Apple is implementing new measures to verify the age of app users in several countries, including Brazil, Australia, and Singapore, as it prepares for upcoming regulations regarding age assurance. Starting February 24, 2026, users in these regions attempting to download apps rated 18+ will be required to confirm their adult status through methods determined by the App Store. This move reflects a broader trend toward stricter age verification requirements for digital content, and impacts developers who distribute apps in these markets.
The changes are driven by evolving legal landscapes in the United States and various regions globally, prompting Apple to update its tools for developers. These updates aim to help developers comply with age assurance obligations, particularly concerning apps with mature content. The core of this effort centers around the Declared Age Range API, which is now available in beta for testing, and provides developers with signals about a user’s age.
Brazil: A Phased Approach to Age Verification
In Brazil, developers can now leverage the updated Declared Age Range API to obtain a user’s age category, but only with explicit consent from the user or their parent/guardian. This API also provides information about the method used to verify the age. Notably, Apple will automatically update the age rating of any app identified as containing “loot boxes” to 18+ on the Brazil storefront. This is a specific response to concerns about the potential for gambling-like mechanics within apps and their appeal to younger audiences.
Blocking 18+ App Downloads in Australia, Singapore, and Brazil
The most immediate change impacts users in Australia, Singapore, and Brazil. As of February 24, 2026, Apple will block downloads of apps rated 18+ unless a user’s age has been verified. While the App Store will handle the initial verification process, developers are also responsible for independently confirming user ages where necessary. The Declared Age Range API serves as a key tool to assist developers in this process, providing a signal about a user’s age range. Help Net Security reported on this change, highlighting Apple’s proactive approach to age restrictions.
New Tools for Developers in Utah and Louisiana
Apple is also preparing for new regulations in Utah and Louisiana. For new Apple Accounts created in Utah starting May 6, 2026, and in Louisiana starting July 1, 2026, age categories will be automatically shared with developers who request them through the Declared Age Range API. To support developers in meeting these obligations, Apple has expanded its suite of tools, including the Declared Age Range API, Significant Change API (under PermissionKit), a new age rating property type in StoreKit, and App Store Server Notifications. These tools provide developers with the necessary signals to understand age-related regulatory requirements and obtain parental permission for significant app updates when required.
The Significant Change API, currently in beta, allows developers to present significant update notifications to adults in Utah and Louisiana. Developers are reminded to adhere to Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines when communicating these updates, providing users with a clear description of the changes. The Declared Age Range API also provides signals indicating whether age-related regulations apply to a user and if parental consent is needed for app updates.
Understanding the Declared Age Range API
The Declared Age Range API is central to Apple’s age assurance strategy. It allows developers to request a user’s age category, subject to user consent. The API also provides information about the method used for age assurance, helping developers understand the level of confidence in the provided age data. Developers can locate more information about the API and related resources at Apple’s Developer Documentation.
These changes represent a significant shift in how age verification is handled within the Apple ecosystem. While the App Store will take the lead in verifying age for 18+ apps, developers will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with evolving regulations and protecting younger users. The availability of tools like the Declared Age Range API and the Significant Change API will be essential for developers navigating this new landscape.
Apple will continue to provide updates and resources to developers as these regulations are implemented. Developers are encouraged to review the Age Assurance Frameworks Q&A and explore resources for designing safe and age-appropriate experiences for their apps at Apple’s developer portal.
The next key dates to watch are May 6, 2026, for Utah and July 1, 2026, for Louisiana, when age categories will begin being shared with developers for new Apple Accounts. Developers should use this time to integrate the necessary tools and processes into their apps to ensure compliance.
Have thoughts on Apple’s new age verification measures? Share your comments below and let us know how these changes might impact your app usage or development practices.
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