Apple Details Developer Requirements for Australia's New Under-16 Social Media Ban

Australia's new law banning social media accounts for anyone under 16 goes into effect on December 10, and Apple is outlining how developers can prepare. Apps operating in the country will need to deactivate existing accounts held by users under 16 and block any new signups that do not meet the age requirement. To help developers meet these obligations, Apple is highlighting several tools and App Store features already built into its platforms.

At the center of Apple's guidance is the Declared Age Range API. The framework lets an app request a user's age range and adjust its features accordingly, including restricting access for those under 16. Social platforms can use the API to prevent account creation, tailor in-app behavior, or comply with region-specific requirements. Apple recently referenced the same API as part of its support for developers navigating Texas age verification laws.

Apple is also reminding developers to update their App Store product pages to reflect the new rules. App descriptions should clearly call out any age restrictions, especially in regions with strict requirements like Australia. Product pages can display whether an app uses age assurance methods—such as the Declared Age Range API—so users understand how age verification is handled.


The company's updated age ratings system offers additional flexibility. Developers can now choose a higher minimum age rating than the one automatically generated by the ratings questionnaire in App Store Connect. Apple says this option is intended to help developers comply with local regulations without needing a custom App Store process.

Another tool is the Age Suitability URL. When included, it appears in the age ratings section of the product page and links to a developer-hosted webpage with more detailed information about content and age requirements. Apple recommends using this space to disclose region-specific rules, such as Australia's under-16 restriction.

Developers can learn more with the following resources:
• Learn more about the Declared Age Range API
• Learn more about updating your app's age rating
• Learn more about an app's product page