UK to regulate Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ under Ofcom rules

Summary

Britain plans to bring large video-on-demand services under regulatory oversight similar to traditional broadcasters, giving Ofcom powers to enforce rules on accessibility and certain content standards.

LONDON, Feb. 24, 2026 — The UK government said it will introduce legislation to place major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, under a regulatory framework overseen by Ofcom.

The move reflects shifting viewing habits, with on-demand services now reaching a majority of UK households and playing a larger role in how audiences consume content.

Bringing streaming into the regulatory framework

Under the proposed changes, certain video-on-demand services will be required to comply with standards related to audience protection and accessibility.

Ofcom would gain powers to investigate complaints and take action if platforms fail to meet requirements.

The rules are expected to apply to services with a significant UK user base, reflecting their growing influence in the media landscape.

Focus on accessibility and audience protection

Officials said the reforms aim to ensure viewers receive comparable protections regardless of whether they watch traditional television or streaming content.

Measures are expected to include requirements around subtitles and other accessibility services, as well as safeguards for audiences where applicable.

Reflecting changing viewing habits

Government data shows a continued shift away from live television toward on-demand viewing, prompting policymakers to update rules originally designed for traditional broadcasters.

The proposed framework seeks to create more consistent standards across platforms while recognizing differences between linear broadcasting and streaming services.

Why this matters

The move signals a broader global trend toward extending media regulation to streaming platforms as they become dominant sources of entertainment and information.

For streaming companies, increased oversight could mean additional compliance costs and operational changes, while audiences may see improvements in accessibility and clearer standards for certain types of content.

FAQs

Q1. Which services will be affected?

Large video-on-demand platforms with substantial UK audiences, including global streaming services.

Q2. Who will regulate them?

Ofcom will oversee compliance and handle complaints.

Q3. Will entertainment content face new restrictions?

The focus is mainly on audience protection and accessibility rather than restricting general entertainment programming.

Q4. Why is the government introducing these rules?

To ensure regulatory standards keep pace with the shift toward streaming as the primary viewing platform.

Q5. When will the changes take effect?

They will be implemented through legislation, with timelines depending on parliamentary approval.