Texas Passes Online Safety Law Targeting App Stores, Despite Apple’s Opposition

In a major move to enhance online child safety, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed a new bill into law that directly affects Apple and Google’s app stores. Set to go into effect on January 1, the legislation mandates that app platforms must verify user age and get parental approval before minors can download apps or make in-app stores purchases.

The bill sparked controversy after reports emerged that Apple CEO Tim Cook personally called Gov. Abbott to express concerns. Apple, alongside Google, opposed the bill, arguing it could compromise user privacy and be difficult to implement. Despite their lobbying efforts, the bill moved forward.

Texas now joins Utah, the first state to pass a similar law earlier this year, with at least nine other states considering their own versions. While Apple successfully blocked a similar proposal in Louisiana last year, that state is also revisiting the bill.

This move marks a growing trend among U.S. states aiming to protect children online, raising critical debates around tech regulation, privacy, and parental control.