UK Streaming Services Face Broadcast-Style Regulation Under New Legislation
The UK government has officially confirmed that major video-on-demand platforms, including Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, will now be subject to broadcast-style regulation by Ofcom. This landmark move brings these streaming giants under the same stringent rules that have long governed traditional television channels, marking a significant shift in the media landscape.
Expanding Regulatory Oversight to Streaming Platforms
Until now, only licensed TV channels were required to comply with Ofcom's broadcasting code and accessibility mandates, such as providing subtitles. This meant that many of the UK's most popular streaming services operated without equivalent regulatory scrutiny, with some entirely unregulated in the country. Under the new legislation, any video-on-demand service with more than 500,000 UK users will automatically be classified as a "Tier 1" service, subject to a new VoD standards code similar to the existing Broadcasting Code.
The regulation will apply to streaming behemoths like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, as well as catch-up services such as ITV X and Channel 4. Public service broadcaster VoD platforms, including ITVX and Channel 4, are included, while BBC iPlayer will initially remain under the BBC Framework Agreement before transitioning to the new code later. This expansion grants Ofcom the authority to handle viewer complaints and investigate potential breaches, just as it does with broadcast television.
Key Objectives and Industry Impact
The primary goals of this regulatory overhaul are to ensure accurate and impartial news reporting and to protect audiences, particularly children, from harmful or offensive content. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized the changing viewing habits, noting that millions now prefer on-demand platforms over traditional TV. She stated, "By bringing the most popular video-on-demand services under enhanced regulation by Ofcom, we are strengthening protections for audiences, creating a level playing field for industry and supporting our vibrant media sector."
A public consultation will be conducted to develop the VoD standards code, allowing both the public and streaming companies to contribute their perspectives. Once published by Ofcom, the code will take effect after one year. This regulatory shift comes as viewership trends show a decline in live TV consumption, with two-thirds of UK households subscribing to at least one major streaming service, according to Ofcom's 2025 Media Nations report.
Broader Context and Future Implications
This move aligns with the broader implementation of the Media Act, which updates the UK's regulatory framework to reflect modern media consumption. It follows recent industry developments, such as Sky's announcement of bundling Disney+, Netflix, Hayu, and HBO Max under a single subscription. The regulation aims to foster a fair competitive environment while safeguarding audience interests in an increasingly digital era.
