Apple, Google Forced to Adopt Texas Age Checks
▼ Summary
– Apple announced compliance with Texas SB2420 law requiring age verification for app downloads starting January 1, 2026.
– The company warned that collecting personal information for age assurance will reduce user privacy for all app downloads.
– Similar age verification laws will take effect in Utah (May 7, 2026) and Louisiana (July 1, 2026) with comparable requirements.
– Both Apple and Google are developing new systems to help developers meet these legal obligations while expressing privacy concerns.
– Under the Texas law, new accounts will require age confirmation and minors must join Family Sharing groups with parental consent for downloads.
Starting in 2026, residents of Texas, Utah, and Louisiana will encounter new age verification requirements when downloading apps from major platforms like Apple’s App Store and Google Play. Apple and Google are being compelled to implement these systems under state laws aimed at protecting minors online, though both companies have voiced concerns that the measures could compromise user privacy by requiring the collection of sensitive personal data for even the most basic app downloads.
Apple recently informed developers that the Texas App Store Accountability Act, known as SB2420, will take effect on January 1, 2026. The law mandates that app marketplaces verify the age of users and enforce restrictions for individuals under 18. While Apple supports the goal of improving online safety for children, the company cautioned that the legislation will impact user privacy by necessitating the gathering of personally identifiable information, even for activities as simple as checking a weather forecast or sports score.
Developers will need to adopt new capabilities and adjust their apps to align with the legal obligations. Apple also noted that similar legislation is scheduled to roll out later in 2026 in Utah and Louisiana.
Google has likewise announced its intention to comply with the three state laws, despite sharing Apple’s reservations about user privacy. In a communication to developers, Google stated that it is creating new APIs, systems, and tools to help them meet the requirements. The Utah law is set to begin on May 7, 2026, while Louisiana’s will follow on July 1, 2026. According to Google, these regulations impose substantial new obligations on many apps, which may need to deliver age-appropriate experiences to users in those states. This includes processing user age ranges and parental approval status for significant changes, as well as notifying app stores about such updates.
To assist developers in complying with the Texas law, both Apple and Google are rolling out new features. Once the law is active, any Texas resident creating a new Apple Account will be required to confirm they are at least 18 years old. All new accounts for users under 18 must join a Family Sharing group, and a parent or guardian will need to provide consent for all App Store downloads, purchases, and transactions made through Apple’s In-App Purchase system by the minor.
(Source: Ars Technica)
