Article · AI translation
IT Home reported on November 3 that Apple announced today new age rating requirements for the App Store: apps with location-sharing features or that offer dating and real or virtual romantic relationship services must be rated 18+.
Starting November 16, developers completing the age rating questionnaire in App Store Connect must declare whether their apps include location-sharing features or features related to dating and AI companions. IT Home provides the official definitions below:
Shared Location: Sharing real-world location information with other people or groups.
Dating and Relationships: Features that support dating or romantic relationships between real users, and/or virtual companions with which users can interact in sexual or romantic content.
Apple said apps with real-person or AI dating and relationship features will have a minimum age rating of 18+, while the rating for apps with location-sharing features will depend on the region.
For example, in Brazil, apps with location-sharing features must receive an A16 age rating, while apps with dating and relationship features must receive an A18 age rating. If developers believe their apps qualify for a lower rating, such as apps designed specifically for parents and children to share locations, they can apply to Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security for a lower rating.
Developers must make these declarations when submitting app updates or changing the age rating questionnaire. All apps must complete the declarations by January 12, 2027.