Apple is comprehensively updating its App Store age rating system. The company has added three new categories: 13+, 16+, and 18+, in addition to the previously used age groups of 4+, 9+, 12+, and 17+. This change comes amid the rise of AI-powered content and the rise of regional content sensitivities. Apple has informed all developers that this new system must be fully implemented by January 31, 2026.
App Store Introduces New Age Rating Categories
New age rating categories allow for clearer categorization of app content. Apple announced that these new age ratings are now active on devices running beta versions of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, tvOS 26, visionOS 26, and watchOS 26. The company has also automatically updated the age ratings of existing apps according to this new system.
This new structure, developed by Apple, allows for the evaluation of app content based on regional differences. Age restrictions may vary depending on each country’s cultural and legal framework. In the new system, developers can either accept the automatic age rating set by Apple or manually change it through the App Store Connect platform.
Apple is placing additional responsibility on developers, particularly for apps powered by artificial intelligence. The company states that features such as chatbots and virtual assistants should also be included in the age rating. If a seemingly harmless app, through user interaction, turns to adult content or controversial topics, it should be marked with a higher age rating.
The new system requires developers to complete the new format available through App Store Connect. Apple gives developers who fail to complete this step until January 31, 2026. It is noted that failure to implement the necessary updates may result in delays in app updates.
This step represents the App Store’s renewed response to the growing global diversity of content and user safety needs. Apple states that the new age rating structure will give developers greater control and ensure a more robust user experience.
