16 publishers · first seen Tue, 27 Oct 2026 17:49 UTC · updated Tue, 03 Nov 2026 17:14 UTC
Apple will soon require developers to provide more details about their apps to enforce new App Store age rating requirements for dating and location-sharing features. Starting November 16, developers will need to declare if their apps allow users to share their real-world location with others or include features that enable dating, relationship, or sexual behavior between real people or virtual companions. Apps with dating and relationship features will receive a minimum age rating of 18, while those with location sharing will see an impact to their minimum age rating in some regions, depending on local regulations. All apps must complete the new declarations by January 12, 2027.
These expanding restrictions aim to prevent minors from accessing content that could pose mental health risks, such as AI chatbots that support sexual or romantic interactions and virtual 'girlfriend/boyfriend' simulators. Apple already has an 18-plus rating category for the App Store, but this has largely applied to apps that feature gambling, violence, references to drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, and nudity or sexual content.
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