UK Streaming Services to Face Enhanced Ofcom Regulation Matching Broadcast TV Standards
In a significant shift for the media landscape, the UK's largest video-on-demand services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, will now be subject to the same regulatory framework as traditional broadcasters. This new legislation, effective from Tuesday 24 February 2026, aims to create a level playing field and strengthen protections for audiences, particularly children.
Expanding Regulatory Scope to Streaming Platforms
Until now, only licensed television channels were required to comply with Ofcom's broadcasting code and accessibility mandates, such as subtitles. This left many popular streaming services either unregulated or operating under less stringent standards. Under the updated rules, any video-on-demand platform with more than 500,000 UK users will automatically be designated as a "Tier 1" service, bringing them under a new VoD standards code similar to the Broadcasting Code followed by broadcasters like the BBC, ITV, and Sky News.
The legislation will empower Ofcom to accept viewer complaints and investigate streaming platforms, mirroring its current oversight of broadcast television. This includes ensuring impartial news reporting and safeguarding against harmful or offensive content. Public service broadcaster VoD services, such as ITVX and Channel 4, will also be impacted, while BBC iPlayer will initially remain under the BBC Framework Agreement before transitioning to the VoD standards code.
Government and Industry Response to the Changes
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy emphasized the necessity of these updates, stating, "We know that the way audiences watch TV has fundamentally changed. Millions now choose to watch content on video-on-demand platforms alongside or, in the case of many young people, instead of traditional TV." She highlighted that the Media Act introduces vital regulatory updates to protect audiences, support industry innovation, and drive growth across the UK's vibrant media sector.
A public consultation will follow to establish the detailed video-on-demand standards code, allowing both the public and streaming companies to contribute their perspectives. Once published by Ofcom, the code will come into effect after one year, providing a transition period for compliance.
Context and Impact on Viewing Habits
This regulatory move comes as viewing habits continue to evolve rapidly. According to Ofcom's 2025 Media Nations report, two-thirds of UK households subscribe to at least one major streaming service like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney+, with 85% of people using an on-demand service monthly compared to 67% who watch live TV. Earlier this month, Sky announced a groundbreaking bundle offering Disney+, Netflix, Hayu, and HBO Max under a single subscription, reflecting the growing dominance of streaming in the market.
The new rules are designed to ensure that as audiences increasingly shift from traditional TV to on-demand platforms, they receive consistent protections regarding content accuracy, impartiality, and accessibility. This represents a pivotal step in modernizing UK media regulation to keep pace with technological advancements and changing consumer behaviors.
