Apple Explains New Rules For Developers Related To Texas Age Verification Act

Apple introduced Declared Age Range API (photo: dock. apple)

JAKARTA - Starting January 1, 2026, iOS and iPadOS application developers are required to comply with a new Texas state law, United States, which requires verification of user age on the App Store. Apple has detailed technical guidelines and solutions so that developers can meet these provisions.

In an official notification to developers on October 8, 2025, Apple explained that this new law called SB 2420 requires each digital app store to ensure the age of users before allowing them to download or buy apps. If users are under 18 years of age, their account must be under the supervision of their parents or guardians.

In addition, parents or guardians are required to give approval for every download, application purchase, or in-app transaction. To comply with this provision, new users in Texas who create Apple accounts will be asked to confirm their age. If detected under 18 years old, they must join the Family Sharing group with their parents or guardians.

Apple warns developers need to adjust their app to suit the new rules. This adjustment is also expected to help them face similar regulations that will be implemented in other states such as Utah and Louisiana.

Texas passed this law in May 2025, although Apple and its CEO, Tim Cook, voiced a refusal because it was considered to have the potential to cause privacy concerns.

Apple recognizes that the goal of strengthening child security in the digital world is indeed important, but they are also concerned about the impact on user privacy, especially as this rule requires collecting sensitive personal information, even just to download apps.

To help developers, Apple introduced the Declared Age Range API, which allows applications to adapt to the age category according to Texas law provisions. The API will be updated in the next few months to meet the required age classification.

In addition, Apple is also planning to launch several new APIs by the end of 2025 which will allow the app to request parental approval if there are significant changes to the app. Parents can also revoke app usage permits at any time.

Apple added that additional technical documentation and details regarding this change will be available at the end of fall 2025 so that developers can prepare themselves before the rules take effect.

The move marks Apple's efforts to balance law compliance, child safety, and user privacy protection amid growing regulatory pressure on the technology industry in the United States.