Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video are about to face stricter UK rules – here’s what is changing
The UK government has announced new regulations that bring major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ under enhanced oversight by media regulator Ofcom for the first time, aligning them more closely with traditional broadcasters such as the BBC and ITV.
Announced on Tuesday (24 February), the changes implement parts of the Media Act 2024 through secondary legislation. They target the largest video-on-demand (VoD) services, those with more than 500,000 average monthly UK users, which automatically qualify as “Tier 1” services. This includes the big streamers as well as public service broadcaster platforms like ITVX and Channel 4’s on-demand offerings.
The core updates fall into two main areas: a new VoD standards code and a VoD accessibility code, both to be developed and enforced by Ofcom after public consultation.
Content and standards rules
Platforms will need to follow a VoD standards code that mirrors key aspects of the existing Broadcasting Code. This includes requirements for:
- Accurate and impartial news reporting (where services provide news)
- Protections against harmful or offensive material
- Safeguards for fairness, privacy, and under-18s
Ofcom gains the power to handle viewer complaints, investigate breaches, and impose penalties, fines up to £250,000 or 5% of qualifying UK revenue per serious breach.
Accessibility improvements
A separate accessibility code sets minimum targets to make content more inclusive for viewers with disabilities (affecting around 18 million people in the UK with sight or hearing impairments):
- At least 80% of the catalogue must be subtitled
- At least 10% must be audio-described
- At least 5% must be signed
Services have up to four years to hit these full targets, with interim milestones after two years. Many platforms are already moving in this direction and may exceed the minimum sooner.
Ofcom said it will soon launch consultations on the draft codes, allowing input from platforms, creators, viewers, and advocacy groups. The standards code is expected to apply one year after final publication, while accessibility requirements phase in over a longer timeline.
