Apple to Require Users Be 18+ for Dating Apps and AI Companions

WHO:

TechCrunch - Apple is changing App Store rules for dating apps and AI companions that offer sexual or romantic content.

Engadget - Apple developers are affected by a requirement to declare whether their apps enable dating between real people, use AI companions, or both.

CNET - Dating apps, AI companion apps, and apps that share users’ locations are affected by new restrictions or disclosure requirements.

WHAT:

TechCrunch - Apple’s new App Store rules require an 18+ rating for dating apps and AI companions that offer sexual or romantic content.

Engadget - Apple will apply an age rating based on developers’ declarations about whether an app enables dating between real people and/or AI companions.

CNET - Apple is imposing age-gate restrictions on dating and AI companion apps; apps that share a user’s location will have to disclose that capability.

HOW:

Engadget - Developers must declare whether their app enables dating between real people, AI companions, or both, allowing Apple to apply the appropriate age rating.

TechCrunch - The 18+ rating applies to dating and AI companion apps offering sexual or romantic content.

CNET - Location-sharing apps must disclose that they share users’ locations.

(UPDATED November 4, 2026 01:06 UTC)

Apple is tightening App Store rules for dating apps and AI companions with romantic content. Developers must declare whether apps connect real people, offer AI companions, or both. Those apps may require an eighteen-plus rating, while location-sharing apps must disclose tracking.