Introduction to Age Assurance Tools
Apple has introduced expanded age assurance tools to help developers comply with regulations. Meanwhile, these updates aim to restrict 18+ app downloads in select markets. Furthermore, the updates expand the Declared Age Range API and related App Store systems.
Additionally, the age-based download restriction began on February 24, 2026. However, this restriction only applies to Brazil, Australia, and Singapore. Therefore, users in these countries must be confirmed as adults to download apps rated 18+.
How Age Confirmation Works
The App Store performs age confirmation automatically using reasonable methods. For example, developers may have separate obligations under local laws to independently confirm that users are adults. Meanwhile, the Declared Age Range API provides developers with a user’s age category and a signal indicating the age assurance method used.
Moreover, these signals help developers determine whether age-related regulatory requirements apply. However, in Brazil, if a developer indicates that an app contains loot boxes, the Brazil storefront will update the app’s rating to 18+.
Declared Age Range API Details
The Declared Age Range API works by sharing age categories with developers’ apps when requested. For instance, new Apple account holders in Utah beginning May 6, 2026, and in Louisiana beginning July 1, 2026, will have their age categories shared with developers.
Additionally, Apple expanded the Declared Age Range API to support compliance in these states. However, the API includes signals indicating whether age-related regulatory requirements apply to a user and whether the user must share an age range.
Benefits for Developers
Developers can use the Significant Update Action, in beta, to present update notifications to adults. Meanwhile, Apple requires developers to follow its Human Interface Guidelines and provide a description of any update.
Furthermore, the API indicates whether a developer must obtain a parent or guardian’s permission before delivering significant app updates to a child. However, this feature helps developers comply with regulations and ensure a safe user experience.
Conclusion and Call to Action
In conclusion, Apple’s age assurance tools aim to restrict 18+ app downloads in select markets. However, developers must comply with regulations and use the Declared Age Range API to ensure a safe user experience. Therefore, developers should review Apple’s guidelines and update their apps accordingly.
Finally, if you have any questions about Apple’s age assurance tools, please see our FAQs below.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of Apple’s age assurance tools?
- How do I use the Declared Age Range API?
- What are the age-related regulatory requirements for my app?
- How do I comply with regulations in Brazil, Australia, and Singapore?
- What is the focus keyphrase for this topic?
