Archive · 28 May 2025
Texas Law Mandates Age Verification for App Downloads
Texas now has a new law to help keep kids safe online.
It requires Apple and Google to make sure people downloading apps are the right age, and to get permission from parents for apps or purchases.
Apple and Google aren't happy because they think it's too much information to collect.
The goal is to give parents control.
Some want the app stores to handle age verification.
Others want age data shared only with apps that need it.
The law is similar to one in Utah.
Texas Governor signed a law requiring age verification and parental consent for app downloads.
The law, effective January 1, 2026, targets Apple and Google app stores.
It mandates parental consent for users under 18 to download apps or make in-app purchases.
Apple and Google oppose the bill due to concerns about data collection.
A poll showed 81% of Americans support parental consent for social media accounts.
- Who
- Texas government, Apple, Google, Meta
- What
- Texas passed a law requiring age verification and parental consent for app downloads and in-app purchases for minors.
- When
- Effective January 1, 2026.
- Where
- Texas
- Why
- To protect children online and regulate app access and purchases.
Tech Companies Concerns
Child Safety Advocates
Primary Concern
Tech Companies Concerns
Protect user privacy
Child Safety Advocates
Focus on child safety
Age Verification
Tech Companies Concerns
Share age data only with apps that need it.
Child Safety Advocates
App stores should handle.
- Effective Date
- January 1, 2026
- Requirement
- Parental consent for minors
- Companies Opposing
- Apple, Google
- Focus
- Age verification and control of technology use
- Public support for parental consent
- 81%
- Bill Modeled After
- Utah
