Apple is introducing stricter age-rating requirements for dating apps and AI companions offering romantic or sexual interactions. The Apple App Store 18+ rating rules will require developers to disclose these features, limiting access for younger users.
Apple announced the changes Nov. 2, 2026, as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen child safety protections. The new content descriptors will be available Nov. 16, and developers must complete their declarations by Jan. 12, 2027.
The policy applies to conventional dating services and AI applications that allow users to engage with virtual romantic partners. Apps containing these features must carry a minimum 18+ rating.
Apple App Store 18+ Rating Extends to AI Companions
Most major dating platforms already restrict their services to adults. Apple’s revised policy establishes a consistent minimum age classification for apps offering dating or relationship features.
The changes could also affect AI companion services. Platforms such as Character.AI and Replika allow users to create virtual personalities, including friends, fictional characters and romantic partners.
Some AI applications combine ordinary conversations with romantic interactions. Developers must disclose those capabilities even when dating is not their app’s primary purpose.
In July 2025, Elon Musk announced animated AI companions for xAI’s Grok chatbot. Some of those characters included adult-oriented features.
By summer 2025, leading AI companion apps had accumulated approximately 220 million downloads across Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
Concerns about younger users interacting with AI companions have already prompted industry-wide changes. TechAmerica previously reported that Character.AI introduced interactive Stories while ending open-ended chatbot access for minors.
Apple Adds Location-Sharing Disclosures
Apple is also introducing a separate disclosure requirement for applications that share users’ real-world locations with other people or groups.
Developers must identify this functionality through a new Shared Location descriptor in App Store Connect. The resulting age classification may vary by region.
In Brazil, apps offering shared-location features generally receive an A16 rating. Dating and relationship applications receive an A18 classification.
However, qualifying family location-sharing apps can request an official rating from Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security. Approved ratings will appear on the Brazilian App Store.
New Requirements Follow Apple’s Child Safety Updates
The changes follow Apple’s broader efforts to protect minors through age-assurance tools, parental controls and updated app safety requirements.
Apple has also strengthened its rules against applications that conceal prohibited functionality. TechAmerica previously covered the company’s restrictions on disguised nudify apps and AI-generated intimate imagery.
The new requirements focus on accurate age classifications rather than banning dating apps or AI companions. Developers must disclose covered features when updating their apps or changing age-rating information.
All applications must complete the new declarations by Jan. 12, 2027. The deadline gives developers time to review their features and comply with Apple’s updated classification requirements.
