In practice, the block depends on parental settings. If parents have configured their child's iPhone to prohibit adult-only applications, the targeted apps will no longer be downloadable.
The same requirement applies to applications that allow users to maintain a romantic relationship with an artificial intelligence.
The measure is presented as a way to better protect minors. It will not, however, systematically prevent them from downloading these applications.
Apple will not ask for identification from every person who wishes to download a dating application.
The new rule therefore does not mean that minors will no longer be able to obtain these applications. Without parental restrictions enabled, downloading remains possible.
Developers will have to declare themselves whether their application offers dating features, including with an artificial intelligence.
The classification notably covers applications that offer romantic or sexual exchanges with characters generated by artificial intelligence.
It also targets services that allow users to chat with a virtual boyfriend or girlfriend.
These virtual companions can send affectionate messages, compliment their interlocutors, or ask them how their day went.