Apple’s 2025 App Store Rules: Age Verification, AI Data Disclosure, and Stricter Lending Limits Explained

Apple’s New App Store Rules Mandate Age Verification for Creator and AI Apps

Apple has introduced significant new rules for its App Store. The changes were announced on November 13, 2025. They focus on child safety, AI data privacy, and financial services.

These updates create new obligations for developers worldwide. They aim to address growing concerns about user safety in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. According to Reuters, the policies took effect immediately for new app submissions.

Apple App Store policy changes

Enhanced Protections for Younger Users and AI Data Privacy

A key change requires creator apps to implement age verification. This is especially important for apps with user-generated content or AI features. The goal is to limit access to mature content based on a user’s age.

Developers now have clear guidelines for restricting content. They must choose their own verification methods. This could range from simple birthdate entry to more robust identity checks.

For artificial intelligence, new transparency rules are now in place. Apps must obtain explicit user consent before sharing personal data with third-party AI systems. This directly addresses how data is used for AI model training.

Stricter Regulations for Financial and Crypto Applications

Loan apps now face a strict 36% annual percentage rate cap. This includes all associated fees and costs. The rules also set a minimum 60-day repayment period.

These measures effectively block certain payday lending models. The policies apply even where local laws may be more permissive. It is a major shift for the fintech sector on iOS.

Cryptocurrency exchanges are now classified as highly regulated. They join banking and gambling apps in this category. Developers must provide extensive documentation for licensing and compliance.

Broader Impact on Mini Apps and Brand Integrity

The updates also clarify policies for mini apps and games. These are HTML5-based experiences embedded within larger apps. They must now comply with the same age restriction and API rules.

Brand protection has been significantly tightened. Developers can no longer use another company’s icon or brand name in their app. This targets clone apps that cause consumer confusion.

These rules apply across all Apple platforms globally. This includes iOS, macOS, and visionOS. The global rollout affects 175 storefronts in 44 currencies.

The new App Store policy changes represent Apple’s strongest move yet to balance innovation with user protection. These comprehensive updates will force developers to adapt their practices. The digital ecosystem is evolving toward greater accountability and safety for all users.

Thought you’d like to know

What are the new age verification rules?

Creator apps must now implement age restriction mechanisms. This is mandatory for apps with user-generated content. The specific verification method is up to the developer.

How do the new rules affect AI apps?

Apps must get explicit consent before sharing user data with third-party AI systems. This applies to data used for model training. Clear disclosure is now required.

What changes apply to loan apps?

Loan apps cannot exceed a 36% APR including all fees. They also must offer repayment periods longer than 60 days. These rules block certain payday lending models.

Are cryptocurrency apps affected?

Yes, crypto exchanges are now considered highly regulated. They must provide licensing and compliance documentation. Their marketing will face enhanced scrutiny.

What about mini apps and games?

Mini apps now fall under standard App Store compliance rules. They need age restriction systems. They cannot extend native APIs without approval.

How does this impact app icons and names?

Developers cannot use another company’s brand in their icon or name. This aims to reduce clone apps and brand confusion. Enforcement relies on trademark holder reports.