Phones and computers must ask a user's age at setup and pass an age signal to apps
Operating system makers must ask for the user's birth date or age at account setup and send apps an age-range signal. App developers must request the signal when their app is downloaded and launched, and the Attorney General enforces civil penalties.
Who it affects
Operating system makers, app stores and app developers
When
This law took effect on January 1, 2026, but the changes described here start on January 1, 2027.
- : Signed into law
- : Law took effect
- : The changes described here start to apply
- : Deadline to add the age prompt on devices set up earlier
Official text
California AB 1043: Age verification signals: software applications and online services.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.