Apple introduced age verification for users in the App Store in several countries

Apple is implementing age verification in the App Store

Like many other technology companies, Apple has decided to roll out mechanisms for verifying users’ ages. This is a response to new regulatory requirements that have been introduced in several countries and regions.

Where Restrictions Apply
Earlier today, Apple published details on which tools will be mandatory:

- Brazil
- Australia
- Singapore

In addition, in the United States the new rules take effect in Utah (from May 6) and Louisiana (from July 1).

What Will Change for Users
Users from Australia, Brazil, and Singapore will no longer be able to download apps rated “18+” unless they confirm their age. Confirmation is done automatically through built‑in App Store methods.

In the states of Utah and Louisiana, Apple will transmit new users’ age data to third‑party developers via the Declared Age Range API. This will allow:

- Checking whether a user meets an app’s age requirements;
- Accounting for the user’s obligation to specify their age range;
- Assessing the need for parental or guardian consent when installing updates intended for children.

What Remains with Developers
Developers retain the right to implement age verification on their own. They can:

1. Deploy their own methods of verifying adulthood;
2. Use Apple’s Declared Age Range API if it is more convenient and meets requirements.

Thus, Apple ensures compliance with regional age‑restriction rules while giving developers flexibility in choosing how to verify users.