Microsoft is introducing a new age verification mechanism integrated directly into Windows 11. Instead of requiring apps to collect and store birth dates, the system will use new APIs to provide registered applications with the user's age range. This approach aims to protect user privacy while ensuring compliance with age-related content restrictions.
The system will provide one of five age ranges rather than a specific birth date. Additionally, a separate API will indicate whether the user's age has been verified through an independent method, with possible statuses such as 'verified', 'not verified', 'declined verification', 'temporarily unavailable', or 'not applicable'.
To access these APIs, developers must register their applications on the Digital Safety platform. Windows will verify the identity of the requesting application before granting access to the data. These new tools are already integrated into Windows 11 24H2 but remain inactive; they are expected to be activated later this year.
