The UK government has confirmed which apps will be included in the new social media ban for under-16s. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced sweeping online reforms, including a full ban on under-16s accessing a range of social media platforms.
Ban Details
Speaking at a Downing Street press conference on Monday 15 June 2026, Starmer called it a "big moment for the country." He stated that "a full ban is the right choice," adding, "This is not something I do lightly, and I will not present it as cost-free, as if social media has brought no benefits to young people, because clearly that is wrong."
The Prime Minister said he would not compromise on the "safety and happiness of our children" and acknowledged that some children would find ways around the ban. Reports had suggested a night-time curfew for 16- and 17-year-olds, but the government will now look at overnight curfews and breaks in infinite scrolling for under-18s, with more details expected in July.
Legislation is expected before Christmas 2026, with the law coming into effect in early 2027, "probably around spring time."
Included Apps
The ban uses the same model as Australia, capturing user-to-user platforms whose purpose is to enable social interaction and allow users to post material, alongside algorithms. The ban includes platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and X. However, messaging services like WhatsApp and Signal are not included.
Starmer clarified: "We've got a definition of social media, which is taken from the Australian model, so that means that there are certain features or services that are expected to be within the ban and some that won't. For example, YouTube Kids, Lego Play, and Google Classroom are on the other side of the line, as they don't have the features concerned here."
