Apple has updated its age rating system in its App Store apps in an effort to improve child protection.
The company on Thursday (July 24) announced the addition of 13+, 16+, and 18+ age ratings to its existing 4+ and 9+ ratings list and the removal of the 12+ and 17+ age range categories, according to a TechCrunch release.
Additionally, app developers will need to answer a series of questions related to the new age ratings to help identify sensitive content in their apps.
Developers can also update their app's age rating to one of the new options if needed.
The company says it has automatically updated all apps and games in the App Store to match the new system, which is available in beta versions of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, tvOS 26, visionOS 26, and watchOS 26.
A public beta has been launched and the final version will be rolled out to all customers in September 2025.
As part of this new system, app developers are required to inform Apple about in-app controls and app capabilities, answer questions about medical and health topics, and disclose whether their apps or games contain violent themes.
Based on the information provided, Apple will determine the appropriate age category, and developers can view and adjust it through App Store Connect.
The age rating system update is intended to provide parents with more specific guidance about the apps their children want to download, and prevent children from installing apps that are beyond their age range.
