And I would rather have the _choice_ whether to prove my age to Apple or not. I think if it were optional, with the additional option of "share my age with websites & apps", nobody would have an issue with it.

The issue is that if you don’t prove your age, access is blocked.

So it’s not optional. At least in Australia.

It's entirely optional within Australia - I don't use Apple, nor do my kids or their kids.

If a website/app requests you to prove your age, you can’t optionally avoid it and continue to use the website/app.

Hasn't happened in any meaningful way yet, so I'll deal with that if and when it happens.

This is where the lack of installing software (sideloading) becomes problematic.

They made it mandatory already, while still not being required to do so.

It would be exceptionally simple to NOT make it mandatory and automatic, and to allow a parent (to make Apple's lie more like actual concern) easy to flip on.

From what I see it also doesn't distinguish between, say, 11 year old and 17 year old. These two ages have vastly different.....development levels. Just to put it in perspective: 16 year old can legally drink alcohol in a pub, can literally have sex with anyone without anyone getting into trouble but apple decides they need to be maintained like primary school child?

I know some of my kids' classmates are barred by their parents from attending any sex ed/relationship classes. Today Apple proudly joins the most backwards and restrictive sects, just because (no, it's not the law).

I don't access any age-restricted content as far as I know, I refused to bend over to Bluesky and instead use alternative services to access my DMs.

Like, come on. That's a very hostile, unnecessary move from Apple, likely a secret agreement with the government of the UK.