Apple is updating its age verification tool and blocking downloads based on age to comply with child protection laws

In recent years, many countries have enacted stricter age verification requirements for apps and online services to protect children. On February 24, 2026, Apple announced that it would roll out an updated version of its age verification tool and a feature to block users who cannot verify their adult status.

Age requirements for apps distributed in Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana - Latest News - Apple Developer
https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=f5zj08ey

Apple rolls out age-verification tools worldwide to comply with growing web of child safety laws | TechCrunch
https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/24/apple-rolls-out-age-verification-tools-worldwide-to-comply-with-growing-web-of-child-safety-laws/

As countries around the world increasingly enact laws requiring online child protection, Apple announced new ways to protect children in February 2025. These included the Declared Age Range API, a tool that divides users' ages into five categories (4+, 9+, 13+, 16+, and 18+ ) and allows developers to verify a child's age without obtaining their date of birth.

Apple announces new child safety measures, including an API that lets developers check users' age ranges and a way to change content displayed for children - GIGAZINE

On February 24, Apple reported that it was rolling out a beta update to its Declared Age Range API in accordance with laws in Brazil, Australia, Singapore, and the US states of Utah and Louisiana.

Developers distributing apps in Brazil can only obtain age categories through the Declared Age Range API if the user or their parent or guardian has chosen to share their age category.

Additionally, starting February 24, Apple will block users in Australia, Singapore, and Brazil from downloading apps intended for those 18 and older unless they can reasonably verify their age. While the App Store automatically performs this verification, developers may be required to verify that users are of legal age by using the Declared Age Range API. Furthermore, in Brazil, if an app contains loot boxes (gacha), the app's age restriction will be updated to 18 and older.

Users who create a new Apple account in Utah after May 6, 2026, or in Louisiana after July 1, 2026, will have their age category shared with developers when requested through the Declared Age Range API. Apple explains that it has expanded its tools for age restrictions and permissions to help developers comply with compliance obligations in Utah and Louisiana.

Apple said, 'Developers can use the Declared Age Range API to display important update notifications to adult users in these states through the Significant Update Action, currently in beta. When releasing important updates, developers must follow the Human Interface Guidelines and provide users with a clear explanation of the update.'