EU Age Verification App Ready for Rollout

The European Commission announced Wednesday that a bloc-wide age verification app is technically ready for rollout, aiming to shield children from harmful online content as several member states advance restrictions on social media access for minors.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed the development during a briefing in Brussels, stating the app would soon be available for download from online stores. Users would set it up by authenticating their age with official documents such as passports or national ID cards, then generate an anonymous proof of eligibility for age-restricted platforms. The system employs zero-knowledge proof technology, ensuring platforms receive confirmation of a user's age without accessing personal data. Designed to work across smartphones, tablets, and computers, the open-source app prioritizes privacy through anonymization features, allowing verification without tracking individuals.

"This app will allow users to prove their age when accessing online platforms, just like shops ask for proof of age for people buying alcoholic beverages," von der Leyen told journalists. She likened the tool to the EU's COVID-19 vaccination...