Apple explains how it will comply with App Store age verification requirements in Texas

Apple has outlined its plans to comply with the new Texas law that requires app stores to verify the ages of their users. Starting January 1, 2026, people in Texas creating new Apple accounts will need to verify that they are over 18, and anyone under 18 will be required to link their account to a parent or guardian's via Family Sharing settings. Apple will be providing new developer tools to help app makers implement parental consent requirements and other age-restricted features. The company is also updating its Declared Age Range API and introducing new APIs to enable developers to request parental consent for significant app changes. While Apple shares the goal of strengthening kids' online safety, the company has expressed concerns about the impact on user privacy, as the law requires the collection of sensitive, personally identifiable information to download any app. Texas is not the only state to implement such requirements, as Utah and Louisiana have also passed similar laws that will take effect in 2026.