Apple requires dating apps and AI companions to be rated 18 and up

Apple is updating its App Store policies to require that all dating apps and AI companions featuring sexual or romantic content be rated for users 18 and older, TechCrunch reported. This change aims to make it harder for minors to access such content on the platform.

Starting November 16, developers must include new content descriptors reflecting their apps' features to ensure accurate age ratings, according to TechCrunch. These rules also apply to AI companion apps that allow users to create romantic or sexual virtual relationships, which have become popular among younger users.

The Verge noted that Apple will also require developers to disclose if their apps share users' real-world locations, which can affect age ratings depending on local laws. These new content declarations will be part of the App Store Connect questionnaire from November 16, with a compliance deadline of January 12, 2027.

Apple's existing 18-plus rating category mainly covered apps with gambling, violence, or explicit content, but the new policy extends this to include dating and AI companion apps to better protect minors, The Verge added. This move follows Apple's broader efforts to enhance child safety and parental controls on its platform.

These policy changes reflect Apple's intention to prevent minors from accessing adult-oriented dating and AI companion features and address privacy concerns related to location sharing, as reported by both TechCrunch and The Verge.