Apple Updates App Store Guidelines for Dating and AI Companion Apps
Apple announced new App Store age rating requirements, mandating an 18+ rating for apps featuring real or virtual AI dating and relationship services. Developers must begin declaring these features via App Store Connect starting November 16, with full compliance required by January 12, 2027. This policy change significantly impacts developers of virtual companion and dating applications by restricting their target audience to adults. It reflects Apple's broader effort to enforce stricter age-appropriateness standards for potentially sensitive software categories. Apps involving location sharing will also require specific regional declarations, such as meeting A16 standards in Brazil unless an exemption is requested. All existing and new apps must complete the updated age rating questionnaires by the January 2027 deadline.
## BACKGROUND
App Store Connect serves as the central management hub for Apple Developer Program members to upload, submit, and oversee their applications across Apple platforms. Age ratings help parents and users understand the content appropriateness of software before downloading it.