Texas will officially implement app store regulations starting in 2026New age verification laws, requiring platforms to verify that users are over 18 before downloading apps. In response, Apple publicly explained its supporting measures for its App Store and revealed that developers must also adjust the way their apps operate to comply with local regulations.
According to Apple, starting January 1, 2026, all users creating new Apple IDs in Texas will be required to undergo age verification. If the user is under 18, the system will require the user's account to be linked to Family Sharing with a parent or guardian. All subsequent downloads, in-app purchases, and transactions will require parental or guardian review and approval.
Apple has not yet specified the specific verification method, but emphasized that developers must also cooperate in adjusting the age restrictions and parental authorization process of apps. To this end, Apple will launch a series of developer API tools, including the currently open Declared Age Range API, which allows developers to set application behavior based on the age rating of user accounts.
Apple will also add a new API in the future to allow developers to proactively request parental consent when there are major changes to the app's functionality. In addition, parents can also revoke their children's app usage authorization at any time.
Apple announced that it will release more complete technical documentation and updates this fall to help developers comply with Texas SB2420, a bill that would require the App Store and digital platforms to verify user age, thereby strengthening children's online safety.
However, Apple had clearly opposed the measure, and Apple CEO Tim Cook even personally lobbied Texas Governor Greg Abbott to veto the bill, but it was clear that no consensus was reached in the end.
In its latest developer notification, Apple stated that while the company supports the goal of strengthening child online protections, it remains concerned about the bill's practical implementation. Officials noted: "SB2420 could force platforms to collect sensitive personal information from users, requiring identity verification even for downloading apps like weather or sports scores, raising privacy concerns."
Currently, Texas is the first state to implement age verification for app stores. Utah and Louisiana have also passed similar bills, which are also expected to take effect in 2026. This means that more states in the United States are gradually requiring technology companies to assume more responsibility for protecting young people. In the future, platform operators such as Apple and Google may have to adjust their global account and download processes to comply with regulatory trends.
