Apple Halts Texas App Store Changes After Court Blocks Age Verification Law
Apple has paused planned App Store changes in Texas. This decision followed a federal court ruling. The judge blocked a new age-verification law.The law was set to begin in January. However, the court raised First Amendment concerns. As a result, enforcement stopped for now.
What the Texas Law Required
The law was known as SB 2420. It targeted app stores run by Apple and Google. It required them to verify user ages.In addition, minors needed parental consent to download apps or make purchases. Developers would also receive age-related data. Therefore, privacy concerns quickly surfaced.Apple said it will monitor the ongoing legal process. Meanwhile, it paused Texas-specific rollout plans. However, testing tools will remain available.The company confirmed developers can still use age-assurance tools. These tools help prepare for similar laws worldwide. As a result, Apple keeps its options open.
Earlier Plans Now on Hold
Apple previously announced strict rules for Texas users. Minors would need Family Sharing accounts. Parents could approve or revoke app access anytime.Apple also planned updates to its Declared Age Range API. These updates aimed to meet legal requirements. However, those changes are now delayed.Apple opposed the Texas law from the start. The company stressed user privacy over data collection. It warned against gathering sensitive personal information.Apple noted people should not share data to download basic apps. For example, weather or sports apps should stay private. Therefore, Apple pushed back strongly.
Happens Next
Texas officials plan to appeal the ruling. The legal battle may continue into next year. Similar laws are also coming in other states.Meanwhile, Apple will keep its tools available globally. These tools support iOS, iPadOS, and macOS users. As a result, developers can still prepare.
