Apple is introducing two new age rating content descriptors in App Store Connect, requiring developers to disclose whether their apps support real-world location sharing or dating and relationship features. The changes are designed to make App Store age ratings more accurately reflect an app’s functionality and comply with regional regulations.

Announced on November 2, 2026, the new requirements will take effect on November 16. Developers will see two additional questions when completing the age rating questionnaire in App Store Connect: Shared Location and Dating and Relationships.

The Shared Location descriptor covers apps that allow users to share their real-world location with another person or group. This could apply to apps offering location-sharing features between friends, family members, or other users.

The Dating and Relationships descriptor covers features that connect real people for dating or relationships. It also includes virtual companions that engage users in sexual or romantic content, extending the classification beyond conventional dating platforms.

Dating features will receive an 18+ minimum age rating

The most significant consequence of the update concerns apps classified under Dating and Relationships. Apple says apps that include these features will receive a minimum age rating of 18+.

Shared Location, meanwhile, may not affect an app’s minimum age rating in some regions. However, the classification can have a more direct impact in countries with specific local requirements.

Brazil is one example. Under its local regulations, apps featuring Shared Location require an A16 age rating, while apps with Dating and Relationships features require an A18 rating.

Apple also provides an option for developers who believe their apps qualify for a lower rating in Brazil. For example, a location-sharing app specifically designed for parents and children may qualify for a different classification. Developers can request an official rating directly from Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security. Once verified, that rating will appear on the App Store in Brazil.

Developers have until January 2027 to complete the declarations

The new descriptors will become available in App Store Connect on November 16, 2026. Developers must provide the relevant declarations when submitting an app update or making changes to their age rating questionnaire.

Apple has also established a deadline for existing apps. All apps must have the new declarations completed by January 12, 2027.

This means developers should review their apps’ functionality and determine whether either descriptor applies, rather than waiting until their next major update.

The change is part of Apple’s broader effort to make App Store age ratings more reflective of the content and experiences available within apps. By explicitly identifying location-sharing and dating-related functionality, Apple can apply regional age-rating requirements more consistently while giving parents and users clearer information about the apps they download.