Apple is rolling out major updates to improve Child Accounts and parental controls, aiming to create a safer, more private digital experience for younger users. The company is also working to reduce data collection by developers when verifying users’ ages.
As part of these updates, Apple plans to introduce new age categories for app ratings and will require developers to disclose key app features, including advertising, user-generated content, and parental controls.
Simplified Child Account Setup & Default Safety Features
Apple is streamlining the process of creating Child Accounts for users under 13 years old. If parents do not complete the setup, default child-friendly safety settings will be enabled automatically.
Additionally, parents will soon be able to approve App Store purchases using Face ID or Touch ID instead of entering credit card details, making the process both secure and convenient.
Privacy-Focused Declared Age Range API
To further protect user privacy, Apple is introducing the Declared Age Range API, which allows parents to share an age range instead of providing their child’s exact birthdate. This ensures developers can provide age-appropriate content without collecting sensitive personal data.
A limited group of developers will still be permitted to collect government-issued IDs or other personal data, but only in cases where regional laws require it.
New Age Ratings for Apps
Apple is expanding its app age rating system to give parents and developers more control over content access. The new categories will include:
🔹 13+
🔹 16+
🔹 18+
These will be added to the existing 4+, 9+, 12+, and 17+ ratings, offering a more precise way to manage what younger users can access.
Greater Transparency for App Features
Developers will now have to inform users—potentially via the App Store—if their apps include:
✔️ Advertisements
✔️ User-generated content
✔️ Parental control features
Apple also confirmed that it will adjust these policies based on regional guidelines, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Final Thoughts
With these updates, Apple is making child safety, privacy, and transparency a top priority. Do you think these changes will create a safer experience for young users? Let us know your thoughts!
