Apple App Store Age Rating Update: Developer Guide

Hey there, fellow developers! Apple's latest update to the age rating system in App Store Connect, announced on July 27, 2025, is shaking things up.

This change aims to make the App Store safer and more transparent, especially for kids, while giving us more control over how our apps are rated.

Let's break down what's new, how it differs from the old system, what it means for you, and how to stay compliant by the January 31, 2026 deadline.

What's New in the App Store Connect Age Rating Update?

Apple's introduced some key changes to help developers align apps with the right audience. Here's what you need to know:

More Granular Age Ratings

Previously limited to 4+, 9+, 12+, and 17+, the system now includes 13+, 16+, and 18+ for more precise targeting.

New Questionnaire

You'll answer questions on in-app controls (e.g., parental tools), capabilities (e.g., chat or web access), medical/wellness topics, and violent themes to help Apple assign accurate ratings.

Override Option

If your app's policy (like a EULA) requires a higher minimum age, you can override Apple's assigned rating.

Region-Specific Ratings

Ratings vary by country, with specific rules for Australia (e.g., 15+ for loot boxes), Brazil, and Korea.

👉 App Store Policy Updates: New Regional Age Ratings in Australia and France

Deadline

Update your app's age ratings by January 31, 2026, to avoid submission issues.

How Does This Compare to the Old System?

Feature	Old System	New System
Age Ratings	4+, 9+, 12+, 17+	4+, 9+, 13+, 16+, 18+
Granularity	Four broad categories	More precise options
Questionnaire	Basic content descriptors	Detailed questions on controls, capabilities, themes
Developer Control	Limited to Apple's rating	Option to override to higher rating

What Does This Mean for Developers?

This update impacts how you manage and submit your apps. Here's the breakdown:

• Review Your Content: Thoroughly assess your app's features (e.g., chat, user-generated content) to answer the questionnaire accurately.

• Stay Compliant: Ensure compliance with laws like COPPA and GDPR, especially for apps targeting kids.

• Build Trust: Accurate ratings boost user trust and improve discoverability in the App Store.

• Regional Nuances: Research local requirements for regions like Australia or Korea to avoid surprises.

• Plan Ahead: Don't wait until January 2026. Start updating now to avoid last-minute stress.
  
  

Practical Steps to Get Started

1. Study the Ratings: Review Apple's age rating definitions to match your app's content.

2. Update in App Store Connect: Go to App Information, complete the questionnaire, and override ratings if needed.

3. Consider Kids Category: If your app is 4+ or 9+, opt into the Kids category for better visibility (but follow strict guidelines).

4. Check Regional Rules: Pay attention to Australia, Brazil, and Korea’s specific rating systems.

5. Be Transparent: Honest answers in the questionnaire help your app reach the right audience.
   
   

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Examples to Guide You

• Social App: With chat and occasional profanity, it might move from 12+ to 13+ or 16+ if there's web access. Be clear about user-generated content.

• Fitness App: Wellness content might push it to 13+ or 16+ for medical advice. Highlight these features accurately.
  
  

Why This Matters

This update isn't just paperwork—it's a chance to make your app stand out.

Accurate ratings build trust, improve visibility, and keep users happy.

With about half a year until the deadline, now's the time to get it right. What do you think—feeling ready or worried about regional rules?

Let's chat in the comments!