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

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

These changes, set to be implemented within the next few months, aim to align with local regulations and enhance user safety, particularly for children.

Apple has assured developers that these changes will be automatically applied, requiring no action on their part.

The new regional ratings will appear alongside the existing global ratings, providing a seamless transition for both developers and users.

Australia: Stricter Ratings for Simulated Gambling

R18+ Rating for Simulated Gambling

In Australia, apps that feature any instances of simulated gambling will now display an R18+ regional age rating. This is in addition to the existing Apple global age rating. This move is part of the Australian government's efforts to tackle issues related to simulated gambling.

Additional Ratings for Specific Content

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

These ratings will be visible alongside the global ratings in the App Store Connect, ensuring that users are well-informed about the content they are accessing.

France: Aligning with Local Standards

18+ Rating for Mature Content

In France, apps that currently hold a 17+ Apple global age rating will now also display an 18+ regional age rating. This adjustment aims to make age ratings more understandable and align them with local perceptions of mature content

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Historical Context and Comparison

Previous Changes in South Korea

This update follows a similar change Apple made in South Korea on August 19, 2019, where age ratings and app availability were adjusted to meet local standards.

Comparison with Other Rating Systems

Apple's App Store ratings are already more stringent compared to alternative systems like ESRB or PEGI.

For instance, PEGI's 3+ rating corresponds to Apple's 4+, and PEGI's 16+ aligns with Apple's 17+. Content rated 18+ by PEGI or Adults Only by ESRB is not permitted on the App Store.

Editor's Comments

Apple's proactive approach in updating regional age ratings highlights its commitment to user safety and compliance with local regulations.

By automatically implementing these changes, Apple ensures a smooth transition for developers while maintaining a high standard of content appropriateness.

This move not only protects younger audiences but also aligns Apple's global platform with regional expectations, setting a benchmark for other app stores to follow.