Apple and Google Say No to ESRB App Rating System

Apple and Google Say No to ESRB App Rating System

Apple has joined with Google in choosing not to use CTIA’s new mobile app rating system in the App Store (and Android Market), reports Bloomberg. The proposed ratings range from “Early Childhood” to “Adults Only 18+”, but considering that both Google and Apple are choosing not to support the system, it seems that it will not have much of an effect.

Companies such as Microsoft, AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint have adopted the system, however, but only three of those (Microsoft, AT&T and Verizon) have App Stores, and Microsoft is the only potential player that could really have any type of a long-term impact as a result.

ESRB (operating under the CTIA) has been rating video games since the early 90s, but I doubt that their system will become as widespread and trusted in the app world. I could be wrong, but when you lack the support of the two biggest App stores, you’ve got a major problem.