18 age limit for dating apps on App Store

Apple is bringing a new order to dating applications with the App Store 18+ age limit rule. The company announced this in its announcement to developers on Monday. Accordingly, it will be difficult for minors to access dating applications and romantic artificial intelligence friends. In addition, the regulation is a continuation of previous steps to protect children.

This is not the first time Apple has taken a step in this regard. Because the company had previously made its age verification technology available worldwide. It also expanded parental controls and child safety features. Therefore, the new decision comes as part of the same studies. When these steps are considered together, a broad framework is created for child safety.

What does the App Store 18+ age limit bring?

All apps that offer dating or romantic relationship features must now carry an 18+ rating. Most major dating services are already opening their platforms to adults. However, the App Store 18+ age limit makes this application an official requirement. Therefore, the 18+ rating is no longer a choice in these applications.

Starting November 16, developers will have to add new content identifiers. Thus, the age ratings of applications will accurately reflect the features they offer. Therefore, developers need to prepare until November 16.

Artificial Intelligence Dating Apps Will Be Affected

The most interesting aspect of the rule is its impact on artificial intelligence companion applications. For example, Character.AI and Replika allow users to create friends, lovers, and fictional characters. Moreover, these applications mostly appeal to the young audience. Therefore, the rule covers these apps as well, not just classic dating services.

xAI also introduced 3D animated artificial intelligence friends last year. However, users could turn on adult (NSFW) features in these characters. Additionally, as of last summer, the most popular artificial intelligence companion applications on the App Store and Google Play had been downloaded 220 million times worldwide. Therefore, the App Store 18+ age limit concerns many users.

Location Sharing Will Also Be Declared

The apps will also specify another detail in addition to "dating and relationships" information. If the user shares his real-world location with another person or group, it will be necessary to declare this. Because if the user does not know that his location is shared, this creates a privacy concern.

There is a separate exception for Brazil. Apps that offer location sharing for families will be able to request an official rating from the country's Ministry of Justice and Public Security (MJSP), rather than being listed with an A16 rating as required by local law. However, developers must add the new content identifiers to their applications by November 16. Finally, the App Store 18+ age limit starts on the same date.