Apple is unifying email domains for Sign in with Apple and iCloud+ Hide My Email this summer. Both services will transition to a single shared domain: private.icloud.com. New addresses created for Sign in with Apple will be on private.icloud.com, previously on privaterelay.appleid.com. Similarly, new iCloud+ Hide My Email addresses will also use private.icloud.com, moving from icloud.com. Existing email addresses on the older domains will continue to function without interruption. Developers with apps or websites using Sign in with Apple need to update their systems. They must ensure their account systems, email validation, and allowlists accept the new private.icloud.com domain. They should also continue to support the existing privaterelay.appleid.com and icloud.com domains. Email service providers are advised to update their filtering and routing rules. These updates should include the new private.icloud.com domain in any domain-specific configurations.

The ImageCreator class is being discontinued due to ongoing refinements in image generation technology. It will cease to function in upcoming versions of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS starting with version 27. Initially introduced with the Image Playground framework, ImageCreator allowed programmatic image generation on-device. Developers using this class will encounter warnings in beta OS releases and runtime errors in TestFlight builds. Upon public release of OS 27, code using ImageCreator will fail to compile, disabling image generation features. It is crucial for apps utilizing ImageCreator to update their implementation before the public launch of OS 27. Developers should transition to presenting the Image Playground sheet for a standardized system-managed image generation experience. Alternatively, integrating a different image generation service is also an option. If migration has already occurred, no further action is necessary. Resources are available to learn more about the Image Playground framework and its image creation capabilities.

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Discover the latest advancements on all Apple platforms and create even more unique, intelligent experiences in your apps and games with major enhancements across languages, frameworks, tools, and services. The latest SDKs bring incredible new features, including platform design refinements, powerful Apple Intelligence capabilities, and new AI development frameworks. Explore what’s new Install the latest beta software Browse documentation and sample code

Apple's latest operating systems, iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, introduce Time Allowances for parents. These features provide flexible tools to manage children's app usage across categories like Entertainment, Games, and Social Media. Time Allowances are informed by expert research and offer age-tailored starting points for parents. Parents retain the ability to customize these settings according to their child's specific needs. App Store Connect's primary or secondary category selections determine an app's placement in Entertainment and Games Time Allowances. The Social Media Time Allowance category is determined by an app's inherent social media functionalities, not its App Store Connect category. These functionalities include redistributing, amplifying, or interacting with user-generated content via social feeds. Starting July 2026, developers will use an updated age rating questionnaire to declare social media capabilities. Indicating social media features will place an app in the Social Media Time Allowance category with a minimum age rating of 13+. Developers can opt out of the under-13 social media category by disabling features for that age group and using the Declared Age Range API to verify ages.

The Apple Developer Program License Agreement and App Review Guidelines have been revised to support new features and updated policies. The revised agreement includes changes to sections such as 3.1 and 14.8, which specify requirements for providing information and responding to questions about developer identity. The agreement also clarifies requirements for using certain frameworks and APIs, such as the Sensitive Content Analysis framework and the Suggested Actions API. Additionally, the agreement specifies terms regarding end users' ability to modify content for personal accessibility purposes. The App Review Guidelines have also been revised, with changes to the introduction and sections 1.2, 4.3, and 4.5.3, which provide guidance on kid and teen safety, developer responsibilities, and the use of Live Activities. The revised agreement and guidelines also include updated terms for use of and access to Apple models, as well as updated requirements for providing information regarding apps in App Store Connect. The agreement also clarifies terms regarding indemnification and updates privacy requirements for use of Passes. Translations of the updated agreement will be available on the Apple Developer website within one month, and developers are required to sign in to their account to accept the updated terms. The revised agreement and guidelines aim to provide clarification and support for new features and updated policies, and developers should review the changes carefully to ensure compliance. Overall, the revisions to the Apple Developer Program License Agreement and App Review Guidelines are intended to promote a safe and secure environment for developers and users alike.

A recent court ruling has lifted an injunction on Texas law SB 2420, impacting new Apple Accounts in Texas. This law mandates age assurance requirements for app marketplaces and developers. Consequently, parents or guardians will need to provide consent for minors under 18 for app downloads and in-app purchases. Significant app changes will also require this parental or guardian approval. Furthermore, consent previously granted can be revoked by parents or guardians. These regulations will officially take effect on June 4, 2026. Developers can utilize the Declared Age Range API to obtain age category data for these Texas Apple Accounts. For substantial app updates, developers must implement the Significant Change API within the PermissionKit framework. Developers are responsible for identifying when an app has undergone a significant change. The App Store will provide server notifications to alert developers if a parent or guardian revokes consent for their app. Developers should review documentation and implement the Declared Age Range API, Significant Change API, new age rating property in StoreKit, and App Store server notification. Testing these implementations in Apple's sandbox environment is crucial for validation.

Apple Developer Centers are dedicated spaces designed for in-person developer sessions, labs, workshops, and appointments across a wide range of Apple technologies and platforms. With locations in Cupertino, Shanghai, Bengaluru, and Singapore, these purpose-built facilities bring expert guidance and hands-on learning directly to the developer community. Later this year, Apple will open its fifth Developer Center in Berlin, offering developers throughout Europe even greater access to Apple experts and events. Created for teams of all sizes and at every stage of app development, the Apple Developer Center Berlin will serve as a home base for in-person sessions, workshops, and one-on-one appointments. Additionally, consultation areas and dedicated labs will offer hands-on support from Apple experts in multiple languages. Learn more

Join us in celebrating these extraordinary apps and games. Meet the 2026 Apple Design Award winners

WWDC26 is just one week away. Get ready for five days of technology, creativity, and community — all online and free. Learn more

The beta versions of iOS 26.6, iPadOS 26.6, macOS 26.6, tvOS 26.6, visionOS 26.6, and watchOS 26.6 are now available. Get your apps ready by confirming they work as expected on these releases. And make sure to build and test with Xcode 26.5 to take advantage of the advancements in the latest SDKs. View downloads and release notes Learn about testing a beta OS Learn about sending feedback

Starting June 18, 2026, the App Store will implement age rating updates in Australia and Vietnam. In Australia, the 15+ age rating will be discontinued, with apps previously rated 15+ containing specific content descriptors shifting to a 16+ rating. These content descriptors include unrestricted web access, frequent medical information, and loot boxes impacting the app ratings. Developers should accurately update their age rating questionnaire responses in App Store Connect. Vietnam will adopt region-specific age ratings, aligning with Decree 147, and utilize four age ratings: 00+, 12+, 16+, and 18+. The appropriate rating will be determined based on answers provided during the age rating questionnaire process. The new Vietnam ratings will be visible on the app's product page within that region. Additional information concerning the changes will be available in App Store Connect and its help resources. Developers need to ensure their app content corresponds with the proper age limit in each country. This ensures all apps comply with local requirements. These adjustments aim at offering a safer and age-appropriate content experience for users. Maintaining appropriate content categorization is very important. Therefore, developers must prepare for these changes ahead of launch.

Every year, the Apple Design Awards recognize innovation, ingenuity, and technical achievement in app and game design. But they’ve also become something more: A moment to step back and celebrate the work of Apple developers across the community. Meet this year’s finalists

Get ready for a week of technology, creativity, and community — all online and free. Here’s what WWDC26 has in store. Learn more

In this edition: Meet inspiring developers, advocates, and educators. Prepare your app for Accessibility Nutrition Labels. Meet the team behind the stylish open-world adventure Infinity Nikki. Get the most out of your Apple Developer account. Update your Intel-based Mac apps to Apple silicon. Read now

A free Apple Developer account provides access to tools and resources for app and game development, distinct from the paid Apple Developer Program. Anyone with an Apple ID can create a free account, granting access to essential benefits. Free accounts allow developers to access beta versions of Xcode and Apple operating systems for testing purposes. These betas enable developers to test apps and provide feedback before public releases, ensuring compatibility. Developers can attend Apple events, both in-person and online, for learning and networking opportunities. The Apple Developer Forums offer a platform for developers to ask questions and share knowledge globally. Developers can directly shape the platform by reporting bugs and suggesting new features using Feedback Assistant. A paid Apple Developer Program membership provides more extensive resources, services, and opportunities. Membership facilitates integration with Apple services like CloudKit and MusicKit, enhancing app features. It also enables large-scale beta testing through TestFlight, reaching thousands of external testers. With membership, developers gain exclusive access to Apple events and worldwide app distribution on the App Store. Furthermore, membership allows for in-app purchases through Apple's secure payment system. However, essential resources such as documentation and tutorials are available even without an account.

Brazil's App Store now allows apps with fixed-odds betting features, but only for those with a valid license. Developers must obtain a fixed-odds betting license from the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) to offer such features. If an app includes gambling, developers must answer "Yes" to the gambling question during age rating. This will automatically assign the app an A18 age rating in Brazil. To submit your licensed app, you must submit a new app version for review. Simply updating the App Review Information section won't trigger a review of your app. Include your license details in the notes section of the App Review Information. Attach any supporting documentation necessary. Your app must also adhere to all legal disclosures and warnings regarding gambling risks and age restrictions. Consult your legal counsel for any questions about your legal obligations.

All around the world, Apple developers do meaningful work that extends beyond great apps and games. They organize events, write tutorials, mentor others, and create spaces to learn and grow. By sharing their expertise and championing each other, they represent the best of the community. Meet some of the inspiring people who are making a difference in the Apple developer community through technical contributions, thoughtful mentorship, and a commitment to helping others succeed. Meet the community >

Apple is launching a new subscription model on the App Store: monthly subscriptions with a 12-month commitment. This offers subscribers a more budget-friendly payment option for auto-renewable subscriptions. Subscribers can cancel anytime, but they must fulfill their agreed-upon payments. Apple provides transparency by allowing users to track completed and remaining payments in their Apple Account. Reminders will be sent via email and push notifications before renewals. Developers can now configure these subscriptions in App Store Connect. Testing is possible using Xcode for these new subscription options. This feature will be available globally on various Apple devices running specific operating system versions. The United States and Singapore are the initial exceptions to the global availability. Availability will expand with the release of iOS 26.5 and related OS updates in May.

Puffies is a game blending jigsaw puzzles with the nostalgia of sticker books, earning a 2025 Apple Design Award finalist nod for inclusivity. Developed by Lykke Studios, it features virtual, tactile puffy stickers based on diverse themes. The game's development started with a core concept: tactile experiences matching the appeal of puffy stickers. Early prototypes faced challenges because of the physics engine for the 3D-modeled stickers, requiring significant refinement to prevent erratic movement. The team meticulously refined sticker interactions, including the behavior when stickers overlap, spending months to ensure perfection. Everything in the game is made to feel just right, they hand-drew the cutouts and tweaked the tilt effect for added immersion. Illustrations were created by artists worldwide, embracing an unfiltered approach to art. The studio's relaxed Thai base allows for unhurried creative exploration which is reflected in the game's design. The game focuses on accessibility with customizable settings like snap distances and finger offsets, catering to diverse player needs. The team prioritizes perfection, dedicating time to small details, such as the sound of opening a sticker pack. This dedication to detail, even in areas unseen by players, is a source of pride for the developers. The article highlights the developer's philosophy and explores the best practices used in Puffies' development.

In this edition: Join us on bilibili and LinkedIn. Catch up on essential sessions before WWDC26. Build a travel app with sample code. Browse the latest edition of our new design gallery. Learn about the biggest-ever update to Analytics in App Store Connect. Read now

Infinity Nikki is a video game that showcases impressive graphics and is the fifth installment in a series of dress-up titles from Infold Games. The game combines elements of RPG action-adventure, where the heroine solves puzzles by collecting enchanted outfits found throughout various lands. The game is available on iPhone and iPad and has received several awards, including the Apple Design Award winner for Visuals and Graphics in 2025. The game's fashion-forward gameplay allows players to guide the heroine, Nikki, and her cat companion, Momo, through clever puzzles using different outfits with unique abilities. The game's world, Miraland, is beautifully realized with cutting-edge visuals, lighting, and effects, making it a wonderland of texture, light, and animation. The game's development team, consisting of around 800 people, worked on creating immersive worlds with attention to detail, from fabrics and sparkles to environments and natural elements. The team's approach to creating fabrics and outfits involved using a revolutionary material system and a re-engineered fabric algorithm to simulate a wide range of materials. The game's physical simulation was achieved through the use of skeletal physics and Chaos Cloth, allowing for natural and expressive motion. The development team's goal was to create a game that is both visually stunning and immersive, with a focus on detail and realism. The game's success is a testament to the team's hard work and dedication to creating a unique and engaging gaming experience.

Plane Finder is a successful app that has been on the App Store since 2009, and it has evolved from a simple "planes on a map" concept to a full end-to-end flight-tracking business. The app was founded by Jodie and Lee Armstrong, a married couple who made a long-term bet on Apple's ecosystem and stayed native to the platform. The team has only eight people, but they have been able to build and operate a global network of physical hardware. The founders attribute their success to their early adoption of Apple technologies and features, such as MapKit, ARKit, and Liquid Glass. They have also been able to leverage the power of the App Store to market their app on a global scale. The team's willingness to adopt new technologies has allowed them to stay ahead of the curve and provide a unique experience for their users. Plane Finder has deployed thousands of flight tracking devices worldwide, and the app has enabled them to find people in locations where they want to improve coverage. The team is currently working on new projects, including an internal project code-named "Plane Finder Double Glazed," which will bring wider UI changes and leverage machine learning and foundation models. One thing that people may not realize about running a global flight tracking network is that Plane Finder owns and operates the network of receivers that power it, and they have designed and manufactured their own receivers and antennas. Overall, Plane Finder's success is a testament to the power of Apple's ecosystem and the importance of staying native to the platform.

To help your apps and games reach more people worldwide — especially in India — App Store Connect now supports localized metadata for 11 new languages, bringing the total number of supported localizations to 50. The new languages include Bangla, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Slovenian, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. You can now provide localized metadata — such as your app name, description, screenshots, and more — in App Store Connect. When you localize your metadata, it helps make your app relevant to potential users across languages and cultures, and provides an opportunity to grow your business. You can add localized metadata with your next version submission for each platform you support and use new localized App Store badges in your marketing communications. Learn how to localize your app information Learn about expanding your app to new markets Download the new localized App Store badges

The Apple Developer Program License Agreement has been revised to support new features, updated policies, and clarifications. Please review the changes and sign in to your account to accept the updated terms. Definitions, Section 3.3.3(B), Section 3.3.7(K): Specified requirements for use of the Foveated Streaming framework and clarified data privacy requirements. Definitions, Section 3.3.3(Q): Specified requirements for use of the Family Controls framework. Definitions, Section 3.3.7(J): Specified requirements for use of the Accessory Notifications framework and Accessory Live Activities framework. Translations of the updated agreement will be available on the Apple Developer website within one month.

The beta versions of iOS 26.5, iPadOS 26.5, macOS 26.5, tvOS 26.5, visionOS 26.5, and watchOS 26.5 are now available. Get your apps ready by confirming they work as expected on these releases. And make sure to build and test with Xcode 26.5 beta to take advantage of the advancements in the latest SDKs. View downloads and release notes Learn about testing a beta OS Learn about sending feedback

The App Store is increasing transparency by displaying regulated medical device status for apps in the EEA, UK, and US. This update aims to help users identify apps used for medical purposes, such as diagnosis or treatment. Apps in Health & Fitness or Medical categories, or those referencing medical information, must declare their status. Developers must declare their app's regulated medical device status in App Store Connect, including regulatory details. This requirement applies to new apps immediately and existing apps by early 2027. Developers can select "Yes" if their app is a regulated medical device or "No" if it isn't. Failure to declare the status by the deadline will prevent app updates. This initiative ensures users have more information about the apps they use for medical needs. The move reflects growing scrutiny of digital health applications. This update emphasizes the importance of regulatory compliance for developers in the health and fitness space. Developers needing to comply with the updated system are encouraged to learn the proper steps to take.

The App Store Connect analytics platform has received a major update, offering developers enhanced tools for app and game performance analysis. This update introduces a refreshed user interface, simplifying the process of tracking key metrics. Over a hundred new metrics have been added, providing deeper insights into monetization and subscription performance. Developers can now utilize cohort analysis to examine user behavior across different groups based on shared characteristics. New peer group benchmarks offer valuable comparisons, enabling developers to assess their performance relative to others. Two new subscription reports are available to export via API, expanding data analysis capabilities. The update also includes expanded filtering options, allowing for more detailed data exploration. To support these new features, a comprehensive App Store Analytics Guide is provided for developing data-driven strategies. This update aims to give developers more actionable insights and strategies for app growth. The focus is to make developers better equipped to analyze and maximize their app's potential. The improvements also help gain a better understanding of how users interact with their apps and in-app purchases. Apple aims to provide tools that respect user privacy while offering valuable data.

Join the worldwide developer community online for a week of technology, creativity, and community. Be there for the reveal of the latest Apple tools, frameworks, and features. Learn to elevate your apps and games through video sessions hosted by Apple engineers and designers. Engage with Apple experts in labs and connect with the worldwide developer community. All online and free. Learn more about WWDC26 >

Check out Apple Developer on bilibili and LinkedIn to learn about the latest news, announcements, videos, and events — including the Worldwide Developers Conference and Meet with Apple activities — for the developer community. Follow on bilibili Follow on LinkedIn

Apple is making changes to the App Store in China following discussions with the Chinese regulator. As of March 15, 2026, changes will be made to the commission rates that apply to the China mainland storefront of the App Store on iOS and iPadOS. The commission rate for standard Apple In-App Purchase and paid app transactions will be 25%. Currently, the rate is 30%. The commission rate for qualifying Apple In-App Purchase transactions under the App Store Small Business Program and Mini Apps Partner Program, and for auto-renewals of Apple In-App Purchase subscriptions after the first year, will be 12%. Currently, the rate is 15%. Signing the updated terms by March 15 is not required to receive the benefit of these commission rate changes starting that date. We strive for iOS and iPadOS to be the best app ecosystem and a great business opportunity for developers in China. We are committed to terms that remain fair and transparent to all developers, and to always offering competitive App Store rates to developers distributing apps in China that are no higher than overall rates in other markets. The Apple Developer Program License Agreement has been revised to support updated policies. You can sign in to your account to accept the updated terms. Translations of the updated agreement will be available on Apple Developer website within one month.

In this edition: Join Apple at GDC. Get tips on privacy and security in a new developer activity. Dive deep on coding intelligence in Xcode 26. Learn how the Speechify team is going all in on AI. Catch up on the latest news and updates. Read now

Apple is providing developers with tools to meet age assurance obligations under new U.S. and regional laws. The updated Declared Age Range API is now in beta, assisting developers in understanding user age categories. Brazil-specific support allows developers to receive age categories when users consent to share them. Starting February 2026, apps rated 18+ in Australia, Brazil, and Singapore will require adult verification for downloads. Apple will handle this verification in the App Store, but developers might have additional obligations. The API provides a signal about a user's age to assist with these obligations. In Brazil, apps identified with loot boxes will automatically receive an 18+ rating. Utah and Louisiana will also utilize the Declared Age Range API, with age categories shared when requested. Several tools, including the Significant Change API and new StoreKit properties, are expanded to support compliance in these states. The API also signals whether age-related regulatory requirements apply to a user. Developers can use the API to present significant update notifications through the Significant Update Action. Developers are encouraged to follow Human Interface Guidelines when presenting these updates. These tools are designed to help developers create safe and age-appropriate app experiences.

The beta versions of iOS 26.4, iPadOS 26.4, macOS 26.4, tvOS 26.4, visionOS 26.4, and watchOS 26.4 are now available. Get your apps ready by confirming they work as expected on these releases. And make sure to build and test with Xcode 26.4 beta to take advantage of the advancements in the latest SDKs. View downloads and release notes Learn about testing a beta OS Learn about sending feedback

The App Review Guidelines have been revised to clarify that apps with random or anonymous chat are subject to the 1.2 User-Generated Content guideline. Translations of the guidelines will be available on Apple Developer website within one month.

The Swift Student Challenge is now accepting submissions until February 28, inviting students globally to create app playgrounds. No prior experience is necessary, and participation is free, requiring only a Mac or iPad with Xcode or Swift Playgrounds. Students can develop app playgrounds on any topic, ideally one they are passionate about. The playground should be designed for an experience of three minutes or less, offering a valuable chance to enhance skills. Additional resources, including a video with past winners and Apple experts, are available to aid participants.

In this edition: Big news about agentic coding in Xcode. Plus: Join us for an online code-along about coding intelligence. Get your Swift Student Challenge submissions ready. Browse new developer activities on SwiftUI, the new design, security, and more. Catch up on the latest updates. Read the full story

Starting April 28, 2026, apps and games uploaded to App Store Connect need to meet the following minimum requirements: iOS and iPadOS apps must be built with the iOS 26 & iPadOS 26 SDK or later tvOS apps must be built with the tvOS 26 SDK or later visionOS apps must be built with the visionOS 26 SDK or later watchOS apps must be built with the watchOS 26 SDK or later Learn more about submitting

The App Store is designed to facilitate the sale of digital goods and services globally, supporting 43 currencies across 175 storefronts. To maintain consistency across storefronts, prices or proceeds may be adjusted due to changes in tax regulations or foreign exchange rates. As of January 29, proceeds from the sale of eligible apps and In-App Purchases have been modified in several countries due to tax changes. These changes include the introduction of Goods and Services Tax in Bhutan, a reduced value-added tax rate in Finland, and VAT rate increases in Kazakhstan and Russia. Other countries with tax changes include Ghana, Lithuania, Mauritius, Türkiye, and Zimbabwe. The Paid Applications Agreement will be updated to reflect that Apple collects and remits applicable taxes in Bhutan and Mauritius. Beginning February 16, pricing for apps and In-App Purchases will be updated in Mauritius, unless it is selected as the base storefront. Prices will not change for auto-renewable subscriptions or on storefronts where prices are manually managed. The Pricing and Availability section of Apps in App Store Connect has been updated to display upcoming price changes, and developers can change prices at any time. The updated agreement and additional information on managing prices and proceeds are available on the Apple Developer website.

We‘re hitting the ground running in 2026. In this edition: A special SwiftUI activity in Cupertino. More ways to connect with us about Liquid Glass. A snappy video recap of Apple design resources. All-new Develop in Swift Tutorials. A new article about taking full advantage of foundation models. Read the full story

A recent injunction issued by a district court suspended enforcement of Texas state law SB2420, which introduced age assurance requirements for app marketplaces and developers. In light of this ruling, Apple will pause previously announced implementation plans and monitor the ongoing legal process. The tools we previously announced to help developers meet their compliance obligations will remain available for sandbox testing, including: Declared Age Range API Significant Change API under PermissionKit New age rating property type in StoreKit App Store Server Notifications These tools can also be used to help developers with their obligations under laws coming into effect in Utah and Louisiana in 2026. The Declared Age Range API remains available worldwide for users on iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26, or later.

Apple is updating iOS to comply with Japan's Mobile Software Competition Act, introducing significant changes for developers in the region. Starting with iOS 26.2, developers will gain the ability to distribute apps through alternative app marketplaces and even operate their own. They can also process payments for digital goods and services outside of Apple's In-App Purchase system. While these changes offer new avenues for developers, they also introduce potential risks like malware, fraud, and privacy concerns. Apple has collaborated with Japanese regulators to implement safeguards against these threats, prioritizing the safety of younger users. These protections include an app notarization process, authorization for app marketplaces, and measures to shield children from inappropriate content and scams. Developers must agree to an updated Apple Developer Program License Agreement by March 17, 2026, to utilize these new options in Japan. Further details about these updates are available, and developers can request a 30-minute online appointment for questions. Translations of the updated agreement will be provided on the Apple Developer website within a month.

The Apple Developer Program License Agreement has been revised to include new features, updated policies, and clarifications. The revised agreement includes changes to various sections, including section 3.3.3, which covers requirements for recordings and privacy, as well as voice-based conversational apps. Section 3.3.3 also includes definitions for the use of the Declared Age Range API and Significant App Topic Update API. Additionally, section 3.3.8 includes specified requirements for the use of the Wi-Fi Infrastructure Framework. Attachment 12 outlines terms for iOS apps in Japan, including alternative distribution and payment methods. The revised agreement also includes changes to Schedules 2 and 3, which cover the right to offset or recoup amounts owed to Apple. Furthermore, section 5.4 of Schedules 2 and 3 clarifies requirements for consumer protection. The updated agreement is available for review, and developers must sign in to their account to accept the new terms. Translations of the revised agreement will be available on the Apple Developer website within a month, allowing developers to review the changes in their preferred language. Overall, the revised agreement aims to provide clarity and support for developers, while also ensuring compliance with Apple's policies and guidelines.

A new Australian law will be implemented on December 10, 2025, requiring social media platforms to prevent people under 16 from having an account. Developers are responsible for ensuring they comply with the new law by deactivating existing accounts for users under 16 and monitoring new signups. Apple provides tools to help developers meet the requirements of this law, including the Declared Age Range API. The Declared Age Range API allows developers to request the age range of their users and modify app behavior accordingly. Developers can use the app description field on the App Store to indicate social media age restrictions for people under a certain age. Apple has updated the age ratings questionnaire to include questions about in-app controls, such as age assurance and parental controls. Developers can indicate the presence of age assurance methods on their App Store product page and set a higher age rating than the one generated by their responses to the age ratings questionnaire. The Age Suitability URL can be used to provide region-specific information and requirements, such as the prohibition in Australia of people under 16 having a social media account. Developers can learn more about the Declared Age Range API, updating their app's age rating, and managing their app's product page. By utilizing these tools and features, developers can ensure compliance with the new Australian law and provide a safe and age-appropriate experience for their users.

In this edition: Meet the 2025 App Store Award winners. Sign up for new design and Liquid Glass activities in the new year. Check out the latest additions to our ever-expanding video library. Meet the team behind the sticker-centric language-learning app CapWords. Browse new documentation and HIG updates. Read the full story

Join us in celebrating the outstanding work of these developers from around the world. Meet the winners

Every year, the App Store Awards celebrate exceptional apps and games that improve people’s lives while showcasing the highest levels of technical innovation, user experience, design, and positive cultural impact. This year, the App Store Editorial team is proud to recognize 49 outstanding finalists. Winners will be announced in the coming weeks. Learn about the finalists

Today, we’re introducing the Mini Apps Partner Program, which expands on the App Store’s ongoing support for apps that offer mini apps. Mini apps are self-contained experiences that are built using web technologies like HTML5 and JavaScript. This program is designed to help developers who host mini apps grow their business and further the availability of mini apps on the App Store — all while providing a great customer experience. Participating developers may benefit from a reduced commission rate of 15% on the sales of qualifying In-App Purchases. To be eligible for this reduced commission rate, participating apps must support certain App Store technologies, including the Declared Age Range API and the Advanced Commerce API in order to help provide a safe and seamless experience for customers of all ages. Learn more about the Mini Apps Partner Program and eligibility

The App Review Guidelines have been updated to align with new policies and offer clearer explanations. A new guideline, 1.2.1(a), requires creator apps to allow users to flag content exceeding the app's age rating and implement age restrictions. The outdated guideline about submitting apps with empty or test ad banners has been removed. Loan apps now have a clarified maximum APR of 36% and cannot demand repayment within 60 days. Guideline 4.1(c) prohibits using another developer's icon, brand, or product name without their consent. HTML5 and JavaScript mini apps are now explicitly included under guideline 4.7. Apps providing software not embedded in the app binary must obtain permission before extending native platform APIs and must include age-gating mechanisms. Crypto exchanges are now listed among apps dealing with highly regulated fields under guideline 5.1.1(ix). Finally, guideline 5.1.2(i) emphasizes the need for clear disclosure and explicit consent before sharing personal data with third parties, including AI. Translations of these updated guidelines will be available on the Apple Developer website soon.

In this edition: Catch the new design in the wild, and let Apple experts show you how to quickly and easily bring it to your apps. Plus, get the latest on the Swift Student Challenge 2026, and check out new developer videos available on demand. Also, explore new activities all over the world, get your apps and games ready for the holidays, and browse the latest news, documentation, and Technotes. Read the full story