The UK Interactive Entertainment Association (UKIE) has expressed approval of the UK government's decision to categorize video games separately from social media in the context of a new ban announcement

The UK government has decided to differentiate video games from social media in its move to implement a ban on social media for individuals under 16. This decision has been welcomed by the UK video games trade organization, UKIE.

In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Nick Poole, CEO of UKIE, stated that the video gaming sector already takes sufficient steps to prevent children from encountering inappropriate content. "The video games industry is committed to online safety for young people," Poole said. "We appreciate today's acknowledgment that video games are separate from social media. For over two decades, the PEGI age rating system has helped provide parents and players with reliable guidance on suitable game content. Leading platforms have been proactive in safety innovations, especially with default communication settings turned off for child accounts."

Poole mentioned that the organization has proposed becoming a technical partner with the government to help create regulatory frameworks suited to gaming, supporting with evidence of effective measures.

Image credit: GamesIndustry.biz

Earlier today, the UK government revealed its intention to ban social media use by under-16s, affecting platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Snapchat. These measures are planned to be enacted by spring 2027.

The policy is partially modeled after the social media restrictions enforced in Australia since December 2025 but extends beyond a broad prohibition. The UK aims to implement "world-leading blocks" on hazardous features like "livestreaming and stranger communication," which will cover various online platforms, including 'gaming sites'. However, UKIE emphasized that video games are not included in this category. GamesIndustry.biz has reached out to the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology for clarification on this aspect.

These protective measures will be automatically active for users under 17 to avoid what the government terms as a "cliff-edge".

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed that family concerns have been a driving force for these regulations. He stated, "Parents want to keep their kids safe and happy, but the online world has made that harder than ever. I’ve heard firsthand from families crying out for change and we will do right by them. That’s why we’re going further than any country in the world by banning social media for under-16s and implementing broader protections to give kids their childhood back. This marks a new beginning. Tech companies had their chance but failed, and we’re stepping in to protect children, support parents, and set a new standard for future generations."