Apple to Introduce Regional Age Ratings in Australia and France!

These new regional age ratings will be displayed alongside Apple's existing global ratings and will not require any additional action from developers.

Under Apple's current App Store guidelines, apps with "infrequent or mild simulated gambling" are rated 12+, while apps with actual gambling or "frequent or intense simulated gambling" receive a 17+ rating. However, the new changes will affect the way age ratings are presented in certain regions.

Australia: Stricter Ratings for Simulated Gambling

In Australia, apps featuring any form of simulated gambling will now receive an R18+ regional age rating. This rating will be displayed alongside Apple’s global age rating, creating a more stringent classification for users in the region. This adjustment follows recent changes in Australian classification guidelines, which were updated on September 22, 2024, in response to growing concerns about the influence of gambling-like mechanics in video games on younger audiences.

The Australian Government introduced these changes as part of its efforts to curb the potential connection between gambling mechanics and problem gambling behaviors, particularly in younger users. Games that feature paid loot boxes or chance-based in-game purchases will now be classified as M (Mature), not recommended for users under 15. Meanwhile, games featuring simulated gambling will carry the R18+ rating, and their purchases will be restricted to adults only.

France: Regional Adjustments for Age Ratings

In France, a similar change will take place. Apps with a global Apple rating of 17+ will now also display an 18+ regional rating in accordance with local guidelines. This move aligns with the country's classification systems and aims to ensure that age-appropriate content is more clearly communicated to users.

Impact on Developers and Users

For developers, these updates will not require any action, as the regional ratings will automatically be displayed in their apps on the App Store. The shift is primarily a regulatory adjustment to provide more transparency and better protect users, particularly minors, from content that may not be suitable for their age group.

For users in Australia and France, the dual display of global and regional ratings will offer clearer guidance, helping them make more informed decisions when downloading apps. This is especially important in the context of games that include elements like simulated gambling or loot boxes, which have sparked concerns among parents and regulators alike.

By implementing these regional age ratings, Apple is demonstrating its commitment to complying with local regulations and safeguarding its user base, especially children and adolescents, from potentially harmful content.