The UK government is implementing new regulations that will affect leading streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. This move follows the increased consumption of video-on-demand services in the country, where approximately 85% of viewers engage with these platforms monthly. The legislation targets services with over 500,000 UK users, mandating compliance with accessibility standards similar to those imposed on traditional broadcasters by Ofcom.

The primary aim of this legislative change is to enhance accessibility for the estimated 18 million individuals in the UK who experience disabilities affecting their sight or hearing. By enforcing a new VoD accessibility code, the government is seeking to improve the user experience for these individuals and ensure they can enjoy the same range of content as their able-bodied counterparts. This move reflects a growing recognition of the need for greater inclusivity in media consumption.

As these regulations come into effect, streaming services will need to adapt their platforms to meet the new standards, which could involve additional resources and editing to accommodate features like subtitles, audio descriptions, and other assistive technologies. The changes not only stand to benefit users with disabilities but also set a precedent for the treatment of accessibility in future media regulations across the UK, possibly influencing approaches in other countries as well.