31 Jul 2025, 16:18
Google and Apple React to New Age Verification Laws
- Support for laws requiring age verification is increasing in the USA and Singapore.
- Google is testing technology for automatic age verification of users.
- Apple and Google express concern about the implications of new data collection requirements.
This is reported by NBC News, TechCrunch, Mezha.
In the USA and other countries, support for laws requiring Google and Apple to verify user age before downloading apps is growing. These laws could significantly change how users gain access to content on their smartphones.
Legislation already enacted in Texas, Louisiana, and Utah, as well as in Singapore, requires app stores to verify user age when they create accounts. These laws will take effect in 2026, and similar proposals are being considered in other states and in the US Congress.
Critics of the laws argue that they could jeopardize privacy and freedom of speech. For example, in Great Britain, users must undergo age verification via a software solution for age recognition. There is also a concern that the new rules will not effectively limit access to adult content.
Google is testing technology that utilizes machine learning for age verification of users. If the system determines that a user is under 18 years old, it will enforce restrictions on the use of Google products, such as YouTube and Google Maps. Users may need to verify their age through a document photo or selfie.
Apple and Google express concern about the implications of new data collection requirements that will be necessary for complying with the new regulations. However, both companies are ready to take on part of the responsibility for the safety of children on the internet.
Overall, the new laws and technologies could significantly change the rules of the game in the app industry, particularly regarding the protection of minors from harmful content.
Tags: USA/Politics/Technology