Apple is restricting dating apps and romanceable chatbots to over 18s

Your dating apps and AI companions now require an 18+ rating, changing how they appear to younger users.

Apple is implementing new App Store age rating requirements, mandating developers to declare dating and location-sharing features within their applications. Starting November 16th, the App Store Connect questionnaire will include these new content descriptors, with a deadline of January 12th, 2027, for all apps to comply. Apps featuring dating or relationship functionalities will automatically receive a minimum age rating of 18. Similarly, apps with location-sharing capabilities may face adjusted minimum age ratings depending on regional laws. This initiative aims to prevent minors from accessing adult-oriented content, including AI chatbots designed for romantic or sexual interactions and virtual companion simulators, which have been linked to potential mental health concerns. Previously, the 18-plus rating primarily covered gambling, violence, drug references, and explicit content.

This move signals a broader industry trend toward greater scrutiny of digital interactions involving AI and location data, particularly concerning minors. Apple's stricter enforcement on dating and romance-focused AI chatbots, alongside location sharing, highlights growing concerns about user safety and the potential for exploitation in digital spaces. The tech giant's proactive stance may pressure other platforms to reassess their content moderation policies and age verification processes for sensitive features.

Developers of dating apps and AI companions must now navigate more stringent App Store review processes, potentially impacting user acquisition and engagement strategies. The 18-plus rating could deter younger demographics from downloading these apps, forcing developers to refine their marketing and product roadmaps to appeal exclusively to adult users while ensuring compliance with new declaration requirements.