Apple and Texas Age Assurance Law: Privacy Concerns

Apple's Response to Texas Age Assurance Law

On Thursday, Apple detailed the adjustments it is implementing to adhere to Texas state law, SB 2420. This legislation introduces age assurance stipulations for both application marketplaces and application creators.

Despite having already deployed its own age verification technologies and instruments earlier in the year, anticipating increased regulatory scrutiny, Apple voiced concerns regarding the Texas law's implications for user privacy.

Privacy Concerns and the Texas Law

In a communication directed towards developers, Apple articulated its apprehension, stating that SB2420 potentially compromises user privacy. The law necessitates the gathering of sensitive, personally identifiable data simply to download applications, even for basic functions like checking weather forecasts or sports results.

The Texas law represents one of several emerging across the United States. This proliferation stems from the lack of comprehensive internet regulations at the federal level, designed to safeguard minors online.

Impact on Developers

Consequently, individual states are enacting their own legislation with comparable objectives, but differing implementation strategies.

While a large technology corporation such as Apple possesses the capacity to comply with these regulations, smaller developers may struggle to do so without Apple’s provided resources. Other startups are similarly affected; for example, Bluesky, a social networking platform, was compelled to restrict its service within Mississippi due to insufficient resources for compliance.

Compliance Requirements Effective January 2026

Beginning January 1, 2026, Apple will be obligated to verify the age of Texas-based users. Users under the age of 18 will be required to participate in a Family Sharing group, overseen by a parent or legal guardian.

Parental or guardian consent will be mandatory for all App Store downloads, purchases, and transactions initiated by the minor, utilizing Apple’s established in-app purchase framework.

Tools for Developers

To facilitate compliance, Apple has stated it will assist developers in determining age in a manner that prioritizes privacy. Currently, developers can leverage the Declared Age Range API, which will be updated prior to the law’s enactment to incorporate age categories for new Texas-based account users.

Furthermore, Apple plans to introduce new APIs later this year. These will enable developers to obtain parental consent when substantial app modifications necessitate a revised age rating.

Parental Control Features

Parents will also retain the ability to revoke previously granted consent should they deem an application unsuitable for their child. This could potentially be utilized for disciplinary measures, such as restricting access to platforms like Instagram.

Upcoming Regulations in Other States

Apple cautioned developers that analogous laws are scheduled to take effect in Utah and Louisiana later this year, urging them to prepare accordingly.