US: App stores may have to ensure people are of legal age to download and use the app

The story of "how children use their phones" in the US is turning into a legal confrontation between state governments and large technology companies. Instead of just providing advice to parents, the requirement is now mandatory: app stores need to confirm users are of age before allowing downloads, in-app purchases, or even continued use of installed apps. The big news right now is Texas with the App Store Accountability Act. This act requires Apple's App Store and Google Play to check users' ages; For minors, parental consent is required before downloading or in-app payments. The law applies not only to “asking for permission at the time of installation,” but also extends to ongoing use — making app stores no longer simply distributors of software, but digital access controllers. The US Supreme Court has just rejected the request to temporarily suspend the implementation of this law. Even though the ruling is only one sentence, the message is clear: Texas can continue to implement while the big constitutionality lawsuit is not over. Apple and Google, through their industry associations, have objected from the beginning; Tim Cook once directly lobbied Governor Greg Abbott. Still, app stores must comply in practice. The political and social reason is quite simple: parents and parliamentarians believe that the "make me 18 years old" model is no longer appropriate. Social media apps, games, messaging, adult content — it's all just a tap away. If banks still require parents to open accounts for children, then app stores — which control almost the entire mobile ecosystem — cannot stand aside. Supporters of the law emphasize: responsibility needs to be placed on the distribution layer, not just on individual developers or children's consciousness. Opponents do not deny the goal of protecting children, but warn of potential consequences. Widespread age verification means collecting more identifying data, increasing privacy risks, excluding undocumented people, and creating complex legal systems in 50 states — each state applying its own standards, forcing businesses to build their own infrastructure. Free speech advocates worry that age controls will expand from app stores to the web, turning the internet into a space where identity is mandatory. Some student groups have even sued out of concern that educational applications and people will also be affected. Reality is leaning towards a tighter squeeze. Not just Texas: California applies regulations to social networks for children; Britain considers banning the use of social networks for under 16 years old; Roblox and Discord have been rolling out age checks globally. Despite its public opposition, Apple still had to develop age APIs and developer tools in Texas — both against the law and preparing to adapt to it. Comment: I support this bill, technology companies have the ability to know who downloads and uses the app. They are even abusing children to make them addicted, making them use their apps and devices more.