Earlier this summer, Apple introduced the iOS 26, which is now already in its public son, as well as a group of new children’s safety features – which includes something that can freeze your face -time video and audio if someone starts to take off the clothes during a call. Now, update the behind the curtain to move Apple further. As part of its new family protection tools, Apple is automatically changing all apps and sports age ratings on the App Store. If you are running a beta version these refreshments are already alive iOS 26IPados 26, Macos Tahao 26, TVOS 26, Visionos 26, or Watchos 26.
The App Store is designed to be a safe and reliable place for all ages, including children. The age rating system for apps and sports has been updated to provide people with a more granular age rating.
– Apple, July 2025
So far, the App Store rating was very limited – mostly sticking to 4+ and 9+. But with this new system, Apple is adding 13+, 16+, and 18+ categories to better reflect what kind of content contains in the app. The quality of the local content depends that the rating will still vary in terms of the region.
In order to get these new era labels properly, Apple is also questioning the questionnaire when presenting an app. Now there are new questions that cover everything from app control and capabilities to precision content and violent topics. Basically, Apple is trying to get a clear picture of what every app actually does – and whether it is safe for young users.
So why is this happening now? My guess is that some things may have pushed Apple in that direction. One reason: Criticism. Last year, a report of the Heat Initiative and ParentistoShother Action criticized both Apple and Google for not working enough to keep children safe in their app stores. More than 200 of the 800 reviews were flagged for “content or features” – many of them are still marketing children.
For example, messaging apps like Messenger are still given 4+ status, which some people see as a problem. | Screenshot by Phonenina
Another factor can be legal pressure. Earlier this year, a new law called the App Store Accountability Act was introduced and it could eventually force companies like Apple and Google to confirm the age of users before downloading apps. Although this is not yet a nationwide rule, some states, including Texas, have already approved it, that is, a strict age scrutiny may be around the corner.
Bottom line: This new era rating system is not just a cosmetic change. This Apple is accelerating its game to create a secure app store – and possibly to stay ahead of new regulations.
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