But some communication functionality is being blocked on 'gaming sites' by default for under-17s

Image credit: GamesIndustry.biz

UK video games trade body UKIE has welcomed the government's decision to classify video games as being distinct from social media, as a ban on the latter for under-16s is set to be introduced.

In a statement to GamesIndustry.biz, the organisation's CEO, Nick Poole, argued that the sector is already doing enough to ensure that measures are in place to stop children from accessing inappropriate content.

"The video games industry shares the Government’s commitment to keeping young people safe online," Poole said.

"We welcome the recognition in today’s announcement that games are distinct from social media. Through initiatives like the PEGI age rating system, we have provided parents and players with clear, trusted guidance on age-appropriate game content for more than 20 years. Major platforms have demonstrated significant safety innovation in this area, including communication features which are switched off by default for child accounts.

"We have offered to act as a technical partner to Government to co-create regulatory frameworks appropriate to games and to provide evidence on what is working."

This morning, the UK government announced its plans for a social media ban for under-16s, which will stop them from accessing platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube and Instagram. These restrictions are set to come into effect by spring 2027.

While inspired by the social media ban enacted in Australia in December 2025, the UK government says that it has gone further than a simple blanket ban by implementing "world-leading blocks" on "harmful functions" like "livestreaming and stranger communication". These will apply to a variety of online services, explicitly including 'gaming sites'.

According to UKIE, this doesn't mean video games. GamesIndustry.biz has contacted the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology for more clarity on this term. Those specific restrictions are also going to be on by default for those below the age of 17, in order to stop what the UK government calls a "cliff-edge".

"Parents want to keep their kids safe and happy, but the online world has made that harder than ever," UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, said.

"I’ve heard first hand from families crying out for change and we will do right by them.

"That’s why we’re going further than any country in the world by banning social media for under-16s and putting wider protections in place to give kids their childhood back.

"This is a line in the sand. Tech giants had their chance and failed, but we’re stepping in to protect children, back parents and set a new normal for future generations."

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