Disruption

California eyes age checks on phones to protect kids online

There has also been a tech industry battle over bills that would make app stores determine user ages.
A student uses her cellphone as she steps outside a high school in downtown Los Angeles on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

The California Assembly this week unanimously approved a bill that would put an age verification onus on device makers like Apple and Google in an effort to protect kids from online harms.

It’s one of multiple methods state lawmakers across the country are considering to address concerns that unfettered access to the internet and social media is exposing kids to dangers such as bullying, sextortion and addictive design features. 

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