Apple is addressing the increasing complexity of age verification laws by launching new tools globally. To adhere to regulations in the U.S. and various countries, Apple will prevent downloads of 18+ rated apps in Brazil, Australia, and Singapore. The company is also enhancing its ‘age assurance’ tools, such as the updated Declared Age Range API, enabling developers to confirm users’ age categories without accessing personal data like birth dates. This move is in response to the surge in government regulations worldwide restricting adult-only apps, like social media platforms, from underage users.
In Brazil, developers can utilize the Declared Age Range API to identify users’ age categories if individuals or their guardians opt to disclose this information. Furthermore, Apple will restrict users in Australia, Brazil, and Singapore from downloading 18+ rated apps until age verification is completed. For games with loot boxes, considered inappropriate for minors by lawmakers, age ratings will be adjusted to 18+ for Brazilian users.
In the U.S., new users in Utah and Louisiana will soon have their age categories shared with app developers through the Declared Age Range API. Apple has expanded its suite of tools concerning age ratings and permissions to meet compliance standards.
Source: TechCrunch