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Apple Age Verification System: Apple has taken a big step amid increasing concerns about the safety of children in the digital world. The company has announced the implementation of a new global age-verification system on all its platforms. Its purpose is to protect children from online threats and help app developers comply with changing laws.

According to Apple, this update has been specially designed for those countries and states where strict rules are being implemented regarding the online safety of children. Along with this, the company has also upgraded its Declared Age Range API, which is currently available for testing in beta version.

What is Declared Age Range API?

Declared Age Range API is a tool with the help of which apps will be able to identify the age range of the user. That means now the app will be able to know whether the user is a child, teenager or adult. Not only this, it will also be known how the age has been confirmed.

Apple says it is providing tools to developers to comply with its “Edge Assurance” Can fulfill responsibilities. This scope includes areas like Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah and Louisiana.

What new changes will happen in which countries?

From February 24, 2026, it will be mandatory to verify the age of the user to download apps with 18+ rating in Australia, Brazil and Singapore. If age is not verified, the app will not be able to be downloaded. An additional rule will also apply in Brazil. If a developer adds a “loot box” If you give information about , then the store rating of that app will be directly changed to 18+.

In America, this rule will come into effect from different dates. Beginning May 6, 2026, in Utah and July 1, 2026, developers will be required to verify user age through Apple’s API. Parental consent will also be required in cases of some major app updates.

Developers will get new tools

Apple has introduced many new features for developers. These also include Significant Change API along with Declared Age Range API, which will work under PermissionKit. A new Edge Rating property type has been added to StoreKit.

With the help of App Store Server Notifications, developers will be able to track whether their app is following the rules or not. Apple has clarified that in case of any major update, it will be mandatory to provide clear and meaningful information to the user, and this process should be in accordance with Human Interface Guidelines.

Why is this strictness necessary?

Today, social media, gaming and entertainment apps are within the reach of children. In such a situation, correct identification of age has become very important. Laws regarding online safety of children are being tightened all over the world. This step of Apple is being considered as a strong effort in this direction, so that minor users stay away from wrong content and developers can also avoid legal risks.