Apple Requires Dating and Romantic Relationship Apps to Be Rated 18+

What happened

Apple is changing its App Store policies to require an 18+ rating for all apps that offer dating or romantic relationship features. Starting November 16, developers must also add content descriptors that reflect app features, including whether an app shares users’ real-world locations. The rule could affect AI companion apps, which can offer users friends, lovers, and other fantasy characters.

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The story so far

Apple now requires App Store apps with dating or romantic relationship features to carry an 18+ rating. Starting November 16, developers must also add content descriptors that reflect app features, including whether an app shares users’ real-world locations. The rule could affect AI companion apps that offer users friends, lovers, or other fantasy characters. Apple said the changes are intended to make it harder for minors to use dating apps or AI companions with sexual or romantic content.