Apple has introduced new age limits and developer requirements on the App Store

Apple has announced revisions to the App Store’s age rating system and new mandatory requirements for developers. The updates are aimed at improving the accuracy of parental controls and have already begun rolling out in beta versions of iOS 26 and the company’s other systems.

Apple said the updates are aimed at improving the accuracy of parental controls.

Age ratings now more detailed

According to a letter sent to developers, Apple is introducing three new levels of age ratings: 13+, 16+ и 18+. These values will complement the existing 4+ and 9+ categories. The updated ratings are automatically applied to all apps and games based on developers’ previous responses to the age rating questionnaire.

According to the letter sent to developers, the new age ratings will be applied automatically to all apps and games.

Apple emphasizes that age ratings may vary by country or region because they take into account local standards for acceptable content. If the assigned rating doesn’t match the app’s target audience, you can change it manually through App Store Connect.

Apple notes that age ratings may vary by country or region because they take into account local standards for acceptable content.

New required questions on the App Store Connect questionnaire

As part of the system expansion, Apple has added a new set of mandatory questions to the age rating questionnaire. They address:

• The presence of built-in management tools;
• Application functionality;
• Medical and health-related topics;
• Content with violent elements

An updated questionnaire must be answered by January 31, 2026. After that date, developers won’t be able to upload updates to App Store Connect until they submit their answers.

Apple also reminded that apps must comply with regulations such as COPPA and GDPR. All features, including “AI assistants and chatbots,” must be considered when evaluating content, especially for sensitive content.

The Apple introduces new age limits and developer requirements on the App Store was first published on ITZine.ru.