Apple CEO Tim Cook has taken a personal interest in opposing a Texas age verification bill, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal. The proposed legislation, SB 2420, has already passed through the legislature and is awaiting a signature from Governor Greg Abbott. If enacted, it would mandate app store operators like Apple to verify the ages of users accessing their platforms. This move places Apple in direct opposition to social media giant Meta, amid an ongoing debate about the necessity and implementation of age verification on the internet.
In a statement to The Verge, Apple voiced its concerns regarding the bill, emphasizing its commitment to enhancing online safety for children. However, the company raised alarms about the implications for user privacy, stating, "We share the goal of strengthening kids’ online safety but are deeply concerned that SB 2420 threatens the privacy of all users. If enacted, app marketplaces will be required to collect and retain sensitive personal identifying information for every Texan who wants to download an app, even for something as simple as a weather app or sports updates," said spokesperson Peter Ajemian.
The Journal report highlights that several states are currently introducing extensive age verification legislation, with at least nine placing the responsibility for age verification on app stores. Utah is already enforcing such a law. In tandem with these measures, some states are proposing to restrict minors’ access to social media, either without parental consent or completely, as reflected in a Texas bill nearing passage. Texas previously instituted age verification for adult websites, leading to a Supreme Court battle regarding these verification laws, which is expected to be resolved soon.
According to the report, Cook and Abbott engaged in a "cordial" conversation regarding the bill where Cook requested amendments or a veto. A spokesperson for Abbott assured that the governor would "thoughtfully review this legislation, as he does with any legislation sent to his desk."
Civil liberties advocates have consistently opposed mandatory digital age verification systems due to significant privacy concerns and ineffective enforcement. In recent years, the conflict has intensified into a tug-of-war between web services and device manufacturers.
Meta, along with other organizations such as the Free Speech Coalition—which has challenged Texas’ age verification law—supports the idea of requiring companies like Apple and Google to implement age verification systems. While both companies currently provide optional parental control features, any legal mandate could heighten their risk in cases of noncompliance and further compromise user privacy.
In response to SB 2420, Apple has instead advocated for the Kids Online Safety Act, a federal bill that would hold web platforms accountable for safeguarding young users. Meanwhile, Google, the owner of the Android operating system and video platform YouTube, has reportedly lobbied against both legislative proposals, finding itself in a complex position.
