Apple today announced that App Store Connect now includes new questions for age rating of apps with social network features. This change is related to the upcoming Time Allowances feature, which will be part of iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27.
New questions regarding social networks
During WWDC26, Apple introduced a number of new features for child protection and parental control. Among them is Time Allowances, which allows parents to more flexibly manage the time children spend in various app categories – including Entertainment, Gaming, and Social Networks.
Apple explains that apps and games that include social features will be placed in the Time Allowance category for social networks regardless of the category selected in App Store Connect and will receive a minimum age rating of 13+. The company adds that apps that do not allow social features to users under 13 years old will not be included in the Time Allowance category for social networks for users under 13.
Apple's definition of social networks
Apple defines social features as "the ability to redistribute, amplify, or interact with user-generated content through a social feed or similar discovery method". The Time Allowance category for social networks is determined based on whether the app offers social features, not according to the category in App Store Connect. Apps with these features will have a new content descriptor "Social Networks" on their App Store page.
The new questions are available for viewing and answering starting today. From September 2026, developers will be required to complete them before submitting new apps or updates to the App Store, or when notarizing for alternative distribution.