Texas Nears Age Verification Law for Apple, Google App Stores

Texas is poised to become the latest state to require Apple and Google's app stores to verify the age of users and obtain parental consent for those under 18 before downloading apps or making in-app purchases, with Senate Bill 2420 awaiting Governor Greg Abbott's signature. This follows Utah's earlier enactment of a similar law and aligns with widespread American public support, as a 2023 Pew Research poll found that over 80% of Americans favor parental consent for children on social media, with 71% supporting age verification. The legislation reflects growing concerns over the mental health impact of social media on children, prompting lawsuits against Meta Platforms and calls for safeguards by the US Surgeon General. Apple has expressed strong opposition to the bill, with CEO Tim Cook reportedly urging Governor Abbott to amend or veto the legislation, citing privacy concerns and the potential disruption to Apple's digital ecosystem. Meanwhile, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has suggested that app stores are a more practical venue for age verification than individual apps requiring parental proof. The Texas bill is part of a broader national and global trend toward stricter regulation of children's online activities, as seen in countries like Australia and Norway considering similar measures.