Apple Requires Age Checks for New Texas App Store Accounts
*A state law effective June 4 forces Apple to verify ages and obtain parental consent for users under 18.*
Apple has updated its App Store rules to require age verification for new accounts created in Texas. The change takes effect tomorrow under the Texas App Store Accountability Act.
Context
The law passed in May 2025 and applies to both Apple and Google. It mandates age assurance for Texas users. Apple had objected to the requirement during the legislative process.
New Apple Accounts opened in the state now trigger "age assurance and parent or guardian consent on behalf of minors under the age of 18." The rule covers app downloads, in-app purchases, and significant app changes.
Detail
The policy applies only to new accounts. Existing users face no immediate change based on the statements released so far. Apple posted the updated guidance on its developer site ahead of the June 4 enforcement date.
The requirement centers on consent flows for anyone under 18. Apple must confirm age and secure guardian approval before allowing paid activity or major app modifications.
Why it matters
Texas becomes the first state to impose this level of account-level verification on major app stores. Developers will see new consent screens only for Texas-based sign-ups, but the precedent may prompt similar rules elsewhere. Apple’s compliance shows that state laws can override platform objections when enforcement begins.
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