The UK government announced on June 15, 2026, that it will ban social media use for children under 16 and require age verification of 18-plus for some AI chatbots, with the rules targeted to take effect in spring 2027.
June 15, 2026 · UK Government
UK to Ban Social Media for Under-16s — and Set Age Limits on AI Chatbots
A sweeping child-protection plan would block under-16s from major platforms and restrict romantic AI chatbots to 18+. Core measures are due in spring 2027.
16
minimum age for major social platforms
18+
required for romantic AI chatbots
2027
spring — some measures take effect
Public Consultation: "Growing up in the online world"
Ran March 2 – May 26, 2026
Parents backing age 16 as minimum 90%+
What the plan covers
Covered (under-16 banned)
Facebook · Instagram · X · TikTok · Snapchat · YouTube
+ no livestreaming & no contact from strangers
Excluded
Pure messaging — WhatsApp · Signal
Curfew for under-18s under review (details July 2026)
The Australia precedent
Australia banned social media for under-16s in Nov 2025 — but enforcement has proved leaky.
70%
still got in
5
companies under regulator investigation, including Snap & TikTok
Supporters
Esther Ghey, whose daughter Brianna's mental health worsened from harmful online content, strongly backs the ban. 90%+ of responding parents support age 16.
Critics
Called a "rushed," "performative" fix that ignores addictive design. YouTube warns it pushes children toward "anonymous, dangerous services." Meta, Reddit and Musk push back.
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