Mandatory Age Verification by Apple Stops Users from Downloading Apps Rated 18+

Across Brazil, Australia, and Singapore, Apple users will no longer be able to download apps rated 18+, unless they verify they are of age, in order to comply with new laws across the globe. Alongside this, Apple has created new tools meant to verify age. 

Age verification on the App Store will now be done automatically, and developers will now be able to “obtain a user’s age range without gaining access to the user’s personal information”. However, they are still liable if their apps do not comply with local laws or don’t meet separate compliance obligations.

These tools will soon become available in two US states: In Utah, starting May 6, 2026, and in Louisiana, starting July 1, 2026.

Apple’s Age Verification Tool

The Declared Age Range API is an “age assurance” tool available on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.

Currently, it has been released for beta testing. Apple made a post discussing the API:

“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.”

Now using the Declared Age Range API, developers will be able to see the age bracket of the user, that is, if they have been given permission.

“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.”

Brazil Against Kids Gambling

In order for an app to gain the 18+ tag, at least one of several requirements must be met. In Brazil, that list also includes Loot Boxes.

Due to Loot Boxes being seen as similar to gambling and lawmakers in Brazil believing that youths in the country should not interact with gambling-like mechanics until they become 18, all apps containing them will now need to have an 18+ rating.