The UK government has announced that popular streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, will now be required to comply with the same content and accessibility regulations as traditional broadcasters like the BBC. This move aims to ensure that audiences are protected from harmful content and that accessibility services, such as subtitles, are provided across these platforms.
According to the government, a significant portion of UK households subscribe to at least one major streaming service, highlighting the growing dominance of on-demand content over live TV. With 85% of people utilizing on-demand services monthly, compared to 67% who watch live TV, the need for regulating streaming platforms has become increasingly apparent.
The regulations will mandate streaming services with over 500,000 users in the UK to uphold new standards, including the accurate and impartial reporting of news and safeguarding audiences against harmful or offensive material. Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, will be empowered to investigate and take action in cases where a breach of the code is identified.
Source: Tech-Economic Times