Streeting backs under-16s social media ban as government consultation concludes

The UK is seriously considering banning social media for anyone under 16. Health Secretary Wes Streeting threw his support behind the idea as the government's consultation period comes to a close.

Streeting didn't mince words, saying regulators and politicians have been "asleep at the wheel" when it comes to protecting young people online. It's a sharp criticism that suggests the UK might be ready to follow Australia's lead on age restrictions.

This matters because social media platforms are increasingly where AI tools live. If the UK moves forward with an under-16 ban, it could reshape how companies like Meta, TikTok, and others deploy AI-powered features and age verification systems.

The timing is notable. As AI makes content more personalized and potentially more addictive, governments are getting more aggressive about protecting minors. Any new regulations will likely force platforms to build more sophisticated age verification tech, possibly using AI itself.

For anyone building consumer AI products, this is a clear signal that age-gating and child safety features need to be baked in from day one, not bolted on later. The regulatory environment is shifting fast, and the UK often sets precedents that other countries follow.