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Apple is set to introduce two new content descriptors in App Store Connect: Dating and Relationships, and Shared Location. Developers must disclose whether their applications allow users to connect romantically with real people or virtual companions, or share their real-world location with others.
Apple's new classification covers apps that enable romantic or dating interactions with virtual companions, not just traditional dating services. This means AI applications offering such experiences will also need an 18+ rating.
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The development comes amid growing concerns about how young users interact with AI chatbots, particularly when conversations involve emotional attachment, relationships or sexual content.
All apps must complete the updated declarations by January 12, 2027. The new information will help Apple assign age ratings that better reflect an application's actual features.
Location-sharing apps will not automatically receive an 18+ rating. Their age classification will depend on regional regulations. For example, Brazil requires an A16 rating for apps with shared-location features, while dating and relationship features carry an A18 requirement.
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The changes build on Apple's wider efforts to strengthen child safety through age-assurance technology and parental controls. They also place greater responsibility on developers to clearly disclose features that could expose younger users to adult-oriented interactions.
With AI companions becoming increasingly popular, Apple's revised rules could reshape how these applications are distributed through the App Store.