Sony has started implementing age verification measures for PlayStation users in the UK and Ireland

In the UK and Ireland, Sony is initiating an age verification process for PlayStation users, in compliance with the UK's Online Safety Act (OSA).

Although this verification is currently optional, it will become mandatory by June 2026, according to information available on their support page.

Without age verification, users might lose access to features such as voice and text chat, messaging, third-party tools like Discord, broadcasting, sharing, and streaming to platforms like YouTube or Twitch. Additionally, user-generated content within games could be restricted.

Sony has noted that the impact on specific in-game features will differ depending on the game design. As updates are rolled out, more features could become inaccessible to users without verified age status.

The age verification service Sony employs is Yoti, the same one Microsoft utilizes for Xbox. Microsoft started implementing this process in July, shortly after the OSA's introduction.

Users have multiple avenues to verify their age: presenting a government ID, employing a facial scan to gauge age, or verifying via their mobile provider.

"The age verification process ensures you meet the requirements for an adult PlayStation account in the UK and Ireland," Sony explained. "We engage this service to provide a suitable experience while enhancing online safety."