Age Checks Are Coming to Windows and Mac, Privacy Groups Warn

Starting January 1, 2027, California's Digital Age Assurance Act will require all OSes (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux) to collect user age during account setup and share it with apps. Similar laws passed in Colorado and Illinois, with a bill under consideration in New York. Fines are up to $2,500 per error and up to $7,500 per intentional violation per child.

• California law requires age collection in all OSes from January 1, 2027
• Users are divided into 4 groups: under 13, 13–15, 16–17, and 18+
• Fines: $2,500 for negligence and $7,500 for intentional violation per child
• EFF considers the laws an unconstitutional barrier to information