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

Apple has announced significant updates to the App Store age rating system for Australia and France.

These updates, expected to take effect in the coming months, are designed to comply with local legislation and improve user safety, especially for children.

Apple has confirmed that developers will not need to take any action, as the changes will be applied automatically.

The new regional ratings will be displayed alongside the existing global ratings, ensuring a smooth experience for both developers and users.

Australia: Tighter Ratings for Simulated Gambling

R18+ Rating for Simulated Gambling

In Australia, apps containing any form of simulated gambling will now carry an R18+ regional age rating, in addition to the Apple global rating. This measure supports the Australian government’s initiatives to address simulated gambling concerns.

Additional Ratings for Specific Content

Additionally, games featuring purchasable loot boxes will be rated 15+, while those with frequent or intense simulated gambling will receive an 18+ rating.

These ratings will appear alongside the global ratings in App Store Connect, helping users make informed choices about the content they access.

France: Aligning with Local Standards

18+ Rating for Mature Content

In France, apps currently rated 17+ globally will now also display an 18+ regional rating. This adjustment makes age ratings more intuitive and consistent with local perceptions of mature content.

Historical Context and Comparison

Previous Changes in South Korea

This update follows a similar adjustment Apple implemented in South Korea on 19 August 2019, where age ratings and app availability were modified to adhere to local regulations.

Comparison with Other Rating Systems

Apple’s App Store ratings are generally stricter than alternative systems such as ESRB or PEGI.

For example, PEGI 3+ aligns with Apple 4+, and PEGI 16+ aligns with Apple 17+. Content rated 18+ by PEGI or Adults Only by ESRB is prohibited on the App Store.

Editor’s Notes

Apple’s proactive update of regional age ratings underscores its commitment to user safety and compliance with local laws.

By automatically applying these changes, Apple provides developers with a seamless transition while maintaining high standards for content appropriateness.

This initiative protects younger audiences and aligns Apple’s global platform with regional expectations, setting an example for other app stores to follow.