Apple restricts dating apps and AI companions to users 18 and up

Apple announced to developers that it will require all apps offering dating or romantic relationship features to carry an 18+ rating, and starting November 16 developers must add new content descriptors so age ratings reflect app features. The policy could also affect AI companion apps like Character.AI and Replika, which let users create AI friends, lovers and fantasy characters. Apps must also indicate if they share a user's real-world location with another person or group, and in Brazil family location-sharing apps can request an official rating from the MJSP instead of the A16 rating required by local law.