Apps that offer randomized virtual item purchases must disclose the probability of receiving each item type before the user completes the purchase.
This analysis describes what Apple's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
This provision requires a pre-purchase disclosure mechanism for randomized item odds, creating a specific UI and information architecture obligation for apps with loot box or gacha-style mechanics.
The updated guidelines state that developers must ensure kids receive age-appropriate experiences within their apps and must remove user-generated content that violates the guidelines, terms of service, or community standards. Under the revised policy, if Apple identifies policy-violating content, the developer will be asked to remove it and provide a compliance improvement plan. Based on the developer's response, the app may be removed from the App Store until compliance is demonstrated. This establishes a formal escalation pathway where developer inaction or inadequate remediation can result in app suspension or removal.
View change record →Under this provision, consumers must be shown the odds of receiving each randomized item type before completing a purchase, which provides material information relevant to the purchase decision.
Cross-platform context
See how other platforms handle Loot Box Odds Disclosure Requirement and similar clauses.
Compare across platforms →"Apps offering 'loot boxes' or other mechanisms that provide randomized virtual items for purchase must disclose the odds of receiving each type of item to customers prior to purchase.Excerpt from Apple's App Store Review Guidelines
1) REGULATORY LANDSCAPE: Loot box mechanics have been examined under gambling regulations in several jurisdictions including Belgium, the Netherlands, and the UK, where regulatory determinations on whether randomized paid items constitute gambling vary.
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This provision requires a pre-purchase disclosure mechanism for randomized item odds, creating a specific UI and information architecture obligation for apps with loot box or gacha-style mechanics.
Under this provision, consumers must be shown the odds of receiving each randomized item type before completing a purchase, which provides material information relevant to the purchase decision.
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