UK brings streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon and Disney+ under broadcaster-style regulation

The UK has introduced significant regulatory changes, bringing major video-on-demand (VoD) platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ under the purview of Ofcom, the country's media regulator. This move aligns these streaming giants with the stricter oversight applied to traditional television broadcasters, a substantial shift in the governance of online content distribution. The implementation of the Media Act 2024 signifies a new era for digital platforms operating within the UK, aiming to ensure a more consistent regulatory landscape across different media formats. These new requirements mandate that streaming services adhere to codes of practice regarding content standards, including provisions for audience protection and due process for complaints. Ofcom will now have the authority to investigate and sanction platforms that fail to meet these stipulated obligations, mirroring the powers it holds over linear broadcasters. This regulatory framework intends to foster a fairer competitive environment and enhance user protection in the rapidly evolving digital media sector. The impact of this regulation is far-reaching, affecting both large international streaming providers and UK consumers. By introducing broadcaster-style rules, the government seeks to elevate the standards of content and user experience across all video-on-demand services. This initiative underscores a growing trend in digital policy across Europe, emphasizing the need for robust oversight of major digital platforms to protect audiences and ensure a more equitable digital market.