Apple Imposes Mature Rating on Gambling Applications, Regardless of Real Money Involvement
Published on August 21, 2019, 07:43h
Apple has announced updated guidelines for developers of gambling-related apps on the App Store. These new measures aim to create a safer and more trustworthy environment for all users.
The latest changes include a more granular age rating system with categories at 13+, 16+, and 18+. Developers are now required to provide detailed information about gambling content and in-app controls to assign precise age ratings that reflect local laws and cultural standards. Developers have until January 31, 2026, to comply with these measures, or risk having their app updates blocked.
Gambling or simulated gambling apps will now be placed under higher age ratings, such as 17+ or 18+ (depending on the region), to prevent underage access. Apple also recommends integrating parental controls and exclusion tools to promote responsible gambling.
Apple does not permit in-app purchases involving real currency in conjunction with games of chance where real money is at stake. Apps and lotteries that support real money wagering must be geo-restricted to the locations where they are used and must have necessary licensing and permissions. These apps must also be free on the App Store.
The new rating system includes games that involve simulated gambling, adult-related content and nudity, references to the use of booze, drugs, and tobacco, and "realistic violence." This system applies not only to games in the App Store's casino category but also to those in the broader gaming/entertaintainment spectrum.
In addition to these changes, Apple has mandated that developers not allow purchases of lottery or raffle tickets or initiation of fund transfers within the app. The company has also worked with the government of the Republic of Korea to make more apps available on the App Store in the Republic of Korea.
These updates are part of Apple's ongoing efforts to more precisely regulate simulated gambling apps to protect minors and promote responsible use. The iPhone and iPad maker has also shown support for tools like BetBlocker, an app promoting self-exclusion from gambling content.
[1] Apple Developer - App Store Review Guidelines for Gambling-Related Apps [2] Apple Newsroom - Apple Announces New App Store Guidelines for Gambling-Related Apps [4] BetBlocker - About [5] Apple Newsroom - Apple Supports BetBlocker, an App Promoting Self-Exclusion from Gambling Content
- The new App Store guidelines for gambling-related apps, announced by Apple, include a recommendation for developers to integrate parental controls and exclusion tools to promote responsible gambling and prevent underage access, particularly in casino-games and lotteries.
- Furthermore, as part of its efforts to more precisely regulate technology related to simulated gambling and protect minors, Apple has mandated that developers not allow purchases of lottery or raffle tickets, or initiate fund transfers within the app, regardless of whether the app falls under the casino-and-gambling category or the broader gaming/entertainment spectrum.
