● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportMedium impact1 neutral
Microsoft introduces new Windows Age APIs for age-appropriate app experiences
Key points
- New Windows Age APIs provide age ranges, not specific birth dates.
- APIs integrate with Microsoft Age Verification for one-time age proof.
- Allows apps to automatically adjust features for age-appropriate content.
- Broadly available to Windows Insiders, rolling out to all users soon.
New Age-Awareness APIs in Windows 11
Microsoft is integrating new Age APIs into Windows 11. These APIs enable applications to ascertain a user's age category, such as "under 10," "10-12," "13-15," "16-17," and "18+," by utilizing information linked to their Microsoft account. This system is designed to provide age-related signals to apps without disclosing sensitive personal data like a full date of birth.
Developer Functionality and Use Cases
Developers can use `GetUserAgeRangeAsync` to retrieve these age groups and `GetAgeVerificationStatusAsync` to check if a user's age has been verified. Microsoft states that this functionality will allow apps to automatically configure features and safeguards for younger users, removing the need for parents to manually adjust settings for each application. The technology is also applicable to AI experiences, where age-appropriate protections are becoming increasingly important.
Microsoft Age Verification Integration
The Windows Age APIs will work in conjunction with Microsoft Age Verification (MAV), which stores a verified age status within a user's Microsoft account. This allows for a "verify once, use everywhere" approach, where apps can check the verification status through the APIs instead of repeatedly asking users to prove their age. Age verification is currently available in Microsoft storefronts in Singapore, Brazil, and Australia, with plans for expansion to more regions.
Availability and Broader Initiatives
The Windows Age APIs are currently available to Windows Insiders and will be rolled out to all Windows users in the near future. In parallel, Microsoft is also increasing the visibility of parental controls during the Windows setup process in certain regions, including France, as part of its broader efforts to enhance user safety and privacy.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
Microsoft is adding new Age APIs to Windows 11 that allow applications to determine a user's age range (e.g., under 10, 10-12, 18+) without exposing their exact date of birth. This feature enables apps to automatically adjust content and safeguards for different age groups, particularly for AI experiences, and integrates with Microsoft Age Verification for a single verification process.