What Happened
The UK government is set to implement new regulations affecting major video-on-demand (VoD) services, including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Disney+. This initiative, part of the Media Act 2024, will bring platforms with over 500,000 UK users under the oversight of Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator. The legislation aims to enhance viewer protection and ensure compliance with accessibility standards similar to those required of traditional broadcasters.
Why It Matters
This regulatory shift reflects a significant change in viewing habits, as more households are now subscribing to streaming services than watching live television. Approximately 85% of the UK population uses an on-demand service monthly, highlighting the need for consistent standards across all platforms. The new rules will allow Ofcom to accept viewer complaints and investigate streaming services, ensuring that audiences, particularly children and vulnerable groups, are better protected.
What’s Next
As the secondary legislation is laid out, major streaming services will need to adapt to the new VoD standards code. This will include compliance with accessibility requirements, such as subtitles, which were previously only mandated for licensed television channels. The regulations will also apply to public service broadcaster VoD services like ITVX and Channel 4, while BBC services like iPlayer will continue to be governed under existing frameworks.
In related news, Prime Video has announced the launch date for the second series of ‘Last One Laughing,’ hosted by Jimmy Carr, set to premiere on March 19, 2024.
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