Apple has unveiled a significant update to its App Store age rating system. The tech giant announced on Thursday that users can expect more detailed age ratings for apps and games on the platform, following the adoption of the new ratings by developers. This development coincides with the release of public beta versions of upcoming operating system updates, including iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and watchOS, by Apple.
In a recent post on the Apple Developer blog, the company revealed the introduction of new age categories such as 13+, 16+, and 18+ alongside the existing 4+ and 9+ ratings. With these additional classifications, developers now have the ability to provide users, especially parents, with clearer insights into the applications they are downloading.
Although Apple currently displays the five age ratings mentioned, it clarifies that the assignment of ratings will be based on specific countries and regions, guided by differing suitability standards worldwide. Detailed information is accessible on the company’s developer support website where developers need to respond to a series of questions for each app listed on the App Store. The app ratings will subsequently be allocated based on their answers.
These queries pertain to various aspects of the app, including in-app controls, features, content involving violent themes, and coverage of medical or wellness subjects. Notably, developers have the option to manually set a higher age rating if a lower one is provided by the company.
Apple emphasizes that developers must address the questionnaire according to the functionalities of different app features, particularly those incorporating AI capabilities. The company also stresses the necessity for apps to adhere to the regulations specified by different regions like the US and the EU.
The updated ratings will be visible on iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, tvOS 26, visionOS 26, and watchOS 26. To allow developers ample time to complete the questionnaire for each app, Apple has set the deadline as January 31, 2026. Failure to comply will restrict developers from submitting app updates thereafter.
