An analysis recommends that Apple, an emerging target for digital-safety advocates, apply an independent review for software age ratings.

Even a brief review of the App Store revealed more than 200 “risky or inappropriate” apps rated as ok for children, according to a new report. They had collectively notched up more than 550 million downloads.

Apple's age rating system in the App Store is not doing enough to protect children, a report claims, after a day's worth of research found a high proportion of apps deemed acceptable to children actually posed a risk.

How safe is the App Store for our kids? Maybe not as safe as you think.The Latest Tech News, Delivered to Your Inbox

As it describes, Apple's update in October added, “App Store search lets you use natural language to find what you’re looking for more easily.” It’s also not the only place Apple is adding natural language search with iOS 18, in addition to Photos, Music, and Apple TV.

Children under than twelve can freely download weight loss and fasting trackers and AI girlfriend apps on the App Store, the report claims.