US streaming giants including Netflix, Disney+, Paramount+ and Prime Video will need to follow the same or similar rules as traditional broadcasters. Streamers expected to be subject to quotas for subtitles and audio description.
- Media regulator Ofcom to use new powers to bring streaming services in line with linear TV channels
- Rules on harmful material and impartiality to apply
- Legal safeguards for under 18s
UK viewers of major streaming platforms such as Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+ are set to receive significantly stronger protections for the first time, under new draft Codes published by Ofcom. The move follows the Media Act, which granted the regulator fresh powers to bring streaming services closer in line with long‑established broadcasting standards.
Ofcom said the aim is to “level the regulatory playing field” so audiences receive consistent safeguards regardless of how they watch. Until now, many global streaming giants have operated outside UK regulation, despite targeting British audiences.
The proposed content standards Code for so‑called “Tier 1” services mirrors the Broadcasting Code but is adapted for on‑demand viewing.
It introduces rules covering harmful or offensive material, crime and disorder, fairness and privacy, and due impartiality and accuracy in news. This latter point is controversial, as Ofcom itself has been accused of turning a blind eye to impartiality when it chooses.
For non‑news programmes, Ofcom plans to allow flexibility by permitting impartiality to be achieved across multiple pieces of content rather than within a single programme.
Protection for under‑18s is a major focus. Services will need to uphold existing safeguards and adopt enhanced measures to protect the welfare and legal rights of children appearing in content. Platforms will also be required to ensure viewers can make informed choices through clearer warnings and content information.
Accessibility improvements
Alongside content standards, Ofcom has unveiled a draft accessibility Code designed to ensure disabled audiences are not left behind. For the first time, major streaming services will be legally required to meet quotas for subtitles, audio description and signing. At least 80% of their catalogues must be subtitled. The rules also order 10% of their content to be audio described and 5% signed.
These quotas mirror similar rules for the most-watched TV channels. Most major streaming services have already begun to provide more accessible content, not just in the UK but globally. It’s unclear how long streamers would be allowed to adapt to the new rules.
Cristina Nicolotti Squires, Ofcom’s Group Director for Broadcasting and Media, said the proposals would give audiences “the same reassurance and confidence” they expect from traditional TV, while ensuring people with sight and hearing impairments can enjoy streaming content on equal terms.
Consultations on both Codes are now open, with responses due by 7 August. Ofcom expects to publish the final versions later this year.
By: Marc Thornham