The technology company announced that the feature will roll out in specific U.S. states and several countries. Moreover, the update aims to help developers comply with regional laws requiring stricter age controls. Consequently, users in certain locations must confirm they meet minimum age requirements before accessing restricted apps.
The new system will operate in Utah and Louisiana within the United States. Additionally, it will apply nationwide in Brazil, Australia, and Singapore. Lawmakers in those jurisdictions recently enacted regulations mandating tighter controls for adult content access.
Apple said developers can now use its updated Declared Age Range Application Programming Interface. The interface remains in beta testing but already provides expanded compliance signals. Therefore, app makers can determine whether users fall into required age categories.
In Utah and Louisiana, developers may request a user’s age range directly through the system. Furthermore, the API informs developers whether regulatory requirements apply to a specific account. If necessary, the system also signals when parental permission must precede major updates.
Apple emphasized that significant app updates must follow established design guidelines carefully. Developers must present meaningful update descriptions to adult users when required. Meanwhile, the Age Verification Tool helps ensure notifications reach appropriate audiences only.
In Brazil, Australia, and Singapore, the process works slightly differently. Users attempting to download 18+ rated applications must verify their age through reasonable confirmation methods. In many cases, the App Store will complete this verification automatically.
However, developers in those countries may still bear independent legal responsibilities. To support them, Apple’s API provides an additional signal regarding a user’s declared age category. Consequently, developers gain clearer insight into compliance obligations before granting access.
In Brazil specifically, certain content classifications trigger stricter outcomes. For example, applications identifying loot box features may receive an automatic 18+ rating. Therefore, the Age Verification Tool ensures younger users cannot bypass those designations.
As governments worldwide tighten digital safeguards, Apple’s rollout signals broader industry adaptation. Ultimately, the Age Verification Tool reflects increasing regulatory pressure on technology platforms to protect minors online.
