Apple rolls out global age verification tools to boost child safety online
Apple rolls out global age verification tools to boost child safety online
Apple introduces privacy-preserving age checks to curb 18+ app access and share age ranges with developers where allowed.
Apple is stepping up its efforts to meet a rising number of child safety and age-verification laws around the world. The company has announced a fresh set of tools aimed at helping developers confirm users’ age ranges without collecting sensitive personal information. As part of the update, Apple Inc. will now block the download of apps rated 18+ in Brazil, Australia, and Singapore unless users confirm they are adults. The move is designed to comply with new and existing laws that restrict access to certain digital content for minors. The changes also extend to parts of the United States. In Utah and Louisiana, new users will soon have their age category shared with developers’ apps through Apple’s updated systems, ensuring companies can meet local regulations. Also Read | Apple may launch first OLED touchscreen MacBook Pro with Dynamic Island later this year A new approach to age assurance At the centre of the update is Apple’s improved ‘Declared Age Range API’, now available for beta testing. The tool allows developers to receive a user’s age range, such as whether they are a child, teen or adult, without revealing exact details like a date of birth. Apple says this approach balances privacy and compliance. Governments across several regions have introduced rules to prevent minors from accessing certain content, particularly social media and adult-focused apps. However, these laws also raise concerns about how platforms gather and store personal data. Also Read | Apple to bet on AI wearable devices built around visual intelligence: Report Under the new system, users, or in some cases their parents or guardians, can choose to share their age category. In Brazil, for example, developers can access a user’s age range through the API if consent is provided. Blocking 18+ downloads and addressing loot boxes In Australia, Brazil, and Singapore, Apple will automatically block users from downloading apps rated 18+ until they verify they meet the age requirement. The verification process will rely on consent-based sharing of age range rather than birthdates.
