Microsoft may require users in Australia to verify their age before purchasing or accessing apps and games rated 18+ on the Microsoft Store and XBOX Store. A Microsoft-branded email describes the change as beginning in August 2026 to comply with Australian regulations, with age verification rolling out throughout the year.
Microsoft to be restricting purchasing or accessing games in Australia if you haven't verified age (Source: official email)
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Users may be prompted to complete an age check before buying or accessing 18+ content. Anyone who does not complete the process may lose access to purchases of that rating, although games and other content already owned are not affected.
Four age-verification methods are listed
Users will reportedly be able to verify their age before receiving a prompt. The email lists four options:
- Email-based age verification
- Facial age estimation using a secure selfie
- Credit card verification
- A government-issued ID, including a driver’s license, passport, national ID, or residence permit
A specific launch date within August remains unconfirmed. The timing and wider scope of the rollout still need confirmation from Microsoft or Australian regulators.
Australian users who receive the prompt will need to complete one of the listed checks to continue purchasing or accessing affected content. Share your thoughts in the comments, and follow us on X, Bluesky, YouTube, Instagram, Steam, and Telegram.
