October 11, 2025

Apple Implements New Age Verification Policy in Texas

News Summary

Apple is set to introduce a new age verification policy for users in Texas, requiring adults to oversee the account creation process for younger users. This comes as part of the App Store Accountability Act, aiming to enhance children’s safety amidst growing concerns over app usage. The policy mandates that users under 18 must join a Family Sharing group led by an adult to access apps. This initiative reflects a broader trend, as similar laws will also take effect in other states like Utah and Louisiana, signaling a shift toward increased parental involvement in digital safety.

Texas has announced a new set of App Store policies implemented by Apple to comply with the recently passed App Store Accountability Act, also known as SB2420. These new measures will take effect starting January 1, 2026, and will require users creating new Apple accounts to confirm whether they are 18 years or older. For users under 18, joining a Family Sharing group led by an adult will be mandatory to download apps or make in-app purchases.

The primary aim of this law is to enhance parental involvement in ensuring children’s online safety, particularly concerning app downloads and in-app purchases. This move is seen as part of a larger trend to improve supervision of children’s online activities, particularly in light of concerns regarding safety on digital platforms.

To comply with these regulations, Apple plans to update its Declared Age Range API, facilitating app developers in categorizing user ages accurately. Developers will need to make necessary adjustments to their apps to meet the new requirements. This policy will not only apply to social media and gaming apps but to all applications available in the App Store, raising privacy concerns among users seeking to access essential information, such as weather updates.

Apple’s developer note highlights its commitment to balancing the need for children’s online safety with the protection of user privacy. This has become increasingly critical as the law mandates the collection of sensitive, personally identifiable information for the mere act of downloading any app. Critics have raised alarms about how this data will be used and whether it could lead to potential misuse.

Elisabeth Stitt, a life coach and parenting educator, has noted that such restrictions could foster improved dialogue between parents and their children regarding phone usage and online activities. As children grow more adept at using technology, open communication about its potential risks becomes essential in ensuring their safety.

While Apple CEO Tim Cook previously urged Texas Governor Greg Abbott to veto SB2420, his efforts were unsuccessful. The law is set to create a significant shift in how app access is managed for minors. Similar legislation requiring age verification is also being implemented in Utah and Louisiana in 2026, indicating a growing trend across states to standardize these practices.

In response to the scrutiny surrounding child safety on platforms such as Roblox, this law has been created to encourage greater parental oversight over app usage. Compared to the fast-paced digital environment, regulatory measures aim to slow down the process of app accessibility, ensuring that minors are monitored appropriately.

Google has announced plans to revise its Google Play policies in line with these upcoming age verification laws in states affected by such regulations. Both tech giants are taking substantial steps to adjust to a landscape increasingly focused on protecting young users and their privacy in the digital world.

As these changes unfold, consumers and developers alike will face new challenges and responsibilities regarding app usage and compliance. The shift underscores a significant evolution in how technology companies address the intersection of child safety, user privacy, and compliance with state laws.

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Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN

The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.