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Apple broadens App Store’s age rating system
Apple is enhancing its App Store age rating system by adding new ratings for ages 13+, 16+, and 18+, while removing 12+ and 17+. App developers must answer queries about their apps’ content, leading to more accurate ratings. These changes aim to improve child safety and provide better guidance for parents. The update will begin public rollout in September across various platforms.
Key points
- Apple adds new age ratings (13+, 16+, 18+) and removes 12+ and 17+.
- Developers must answer questions regarding sensitive content in apps.
- All existing apps will be automatically updated to reflect the new ratings.
- Changes aim to better guide parents regarding app suitability for children.
- Inappropriate apps will be limited in visibility on the App Store for child accounts.
- Developers will need to disclose app features related to wellness, violence, and parental controls.
- The updates are aligned with broader child safety initiatives announced earlier.
Why it matters
- The changes align with growing legislative pressures for online child protection.
- Similar age verification laws are being considered or implemented in various U.S. states.
- Tech companies are advocating for developer-led age verification instead of store-driven methods.
- These updates reflect ongoing trends in software and app development focusing on user safety and parental controls.
Apple's updated age rating system represents a proactive approach to enhancing digital safety for children while addressing increasing regulatory scrutiny, ultimately benefiting both parents and developers.