Key Takeaways
1. As of February 24, 2026, users in Australia, Brazil, and Singapore will need adult verification to download apps rated 18+ on the App Store.
2. Apple is enhancing its Declared Age Range API to help developers meet age assurance requirements without needing exact birthdates.
3. In Brazil, the updated API allows developers to access a user’s age category with user consent, and it shows the age assurance method used.
4. New Apple account users will have access to age categories through the Declared Age Range API, which includes information on age-related regulations.
5. Apps in Brazil flagged for containing loot boxes will have their age rating changed to 18+ in the App Store.
Apple announced that as of February 24, 2026, users in Australia, Brazil, and Singapore will not be able to download apps rated 18+ unless they have been verified as adults through “reasonable methods.” The company notes that the App Store will handle adult verification automatically, but developers might still have legal responsibilities to check users’ ages themselves.
Expansion of Age Assurance Tools
Apple is also enhancing its Declared Age Range API (currently in beta testing) to assist developers in fulfilling “age assurance” mandates in various regions. The tech giant claims that this API can offer a useful age signal without needing an exact birthdate from users.
Details on Data Sharing in Brazil
In Brazil, developers can utilize the updated API to access a user’s age category. This information is only shared if the user, or a parent/guardian when necessary, agrees to it. Moreover, the API can indicate the method used for age assurance.
Information for New Apple Account Users
For new users creating Apple accounts, these age categories will be accessible when requested through the Declared Age Range API. The company has also broadened its previously announced tools for states like Utah and Louisiana, which include:
New signals are now available via the Declared Age Range API, indicating whether regulations regarding age apply, if the user must provide an age range, and if parental or guardian consent is required for significant updates impacting a child.
Impact of Loot Boxes on App Ratings
For developers operating in Brazil, if an app is flagged for containing loot boxes in the age-rating questionnaire, its age rating in the Brazil App Store will be updated to 18+.
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