PlayStation has announced that it will implement mandatory age verification for all players in the UK and Ireland starting in 2026, as part of efforts to comply with the Online Safety Act of 2023. This measure is not surprising, as it follows the example of other platforms like Xbox, Discord, and Steam, which have begun to adopt similar regulations to verify the identity of their users.
If you are not of legal age, you will not be able to connect to the Internet
According to Sony’s official communication, players who do not complete the age verification process will face restrictions on various communication features. This includes limitations on the use of text and voice chat, sending messages, as well as access to third-party platforms like Discord. Additionally, users who do not verify their age will not be able to stream content on YouTube or Twitch or access user-generated content in video games.
To carry out this verification process, Sony will use the Yoti app, which allows users’ identity and age to be verified through facial recognition. The choice of Yoti reflects the trend observed among various companies in the United Kingdom to adapt to new legal requirements. Microsoft, for example, has already started requesting this information from its users through the same app.
Despite these restrictions, players who do not complete the age verification process will still be able to enjoy their titles in the PlayStation ecosystem and make purchases in the PS Store. However, they will have to operate without access to communication features. This step aligns with the general movement of companies in the sector, which are implementing measures to ensure a safer environment for their users and comply with current regulations.
