Story perspectives

Apple Adopts Age-Verification Laws Amid Privacy Concerns

10/15/2025

Summary

Story summary

Apple will comply with new Texas and California age-verification laws for account creation and app access.
Texas law, effective January 1, 2026, requires new accounts to verify age without photo ID.
California's AB 1043, effective January 1, 2027, lets parents enter a child's age during device setup and assigns four age groups.
European Union postponed a vote on the Child Sexual Abuse Regulation amid privacy concerns about mandatory chat monitoring.

History

Historical Context

In 2000, the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) established age verification for users under 13, influencing subsequent state laws. By 2023, states like Louisiana and Utah enacted stricter age verification laws for online content, reflecting heightened concerns over child safety. Texas's 2026 law mandating age verification for online accounts marks a significant shift towards stricter digital regulations aimed at protecting minors.

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Story summary

Apple will comply with new Texas and California age-verification laws for account creation and app access.
Texas law, effective January 1, 2026, requires new accounts to verify age without photo ID.
California's AB 1043, effective January 1, 2027, lets parents enter a child's age during device setup and assigns four age groups.
European Union postponed a vote on the Child Sexual Abuse Regulation amid privacy concerns about mandatory chat monitoring.

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