Microsoft introduces age verification for Xbox to align with the UK's Online Safety Act

In compliance with the UK's Online Safety Act, Microsoft has introduced age verification for Xbox users in the UK. Details about this rollout were shared by Kim Kunes, vice president of gaming trust and safety at Xbox, through a post on Xbox Wire dated July 28.

The implementation is a response to recent UK legislation aimed at enhancing online security for both adults and children. Users in the UK who have identified themselves as 18 years or older on their Xbox account will start receiving prompts to confirm their age when they log in using their Microsoft account.

While current Xbox users continue enjoying the platform without age verification, from early 2026, account age confirmation will become necessary to benefit from the platform’s complete social features, such as voice chat and messaging. Until then, those who do not verify their age will only interact socially with known friends, but this restriction won't impact their game purchases, history, or achievements.

Players can proceed with age verification via Yoti, using various methods like government-issued ID, age estimation, mobile provider checks, or credit card verification.

The announcement also notes plans to extend age verification beyond the UK, adjusting to regional differences to maintain player safety globally. Xbox intends to work with local entities and regulators to uphold player privacy and integration of these measures without hindering the gaming experience.

Since being enacted in the UK on July 25, 2025, the Online Safety Act mandates online services to ensure safety by design, with heightened protection for children while maintaining openness and accountability. Video games are included under this law, posing challenges for some smaller gaming companies due to its complexities.