Sony is rolling out mandatory age verification for PlayStation users in the United Kingdom and Ireland, introducing new restrictions on communication features as part of compliance with the UK’s Online Safety Act.
Under the changes, players will need to confirm their age to continue using features such as voice chat, messaging, party systems, and third-party communication tools like Discord. Users who do not complete the verification will still be able to play games and access the PlayStation Store, but social and sharing functions will be limited or disabled.
The requirement is set to take effect from June 2026, though Sony has already begun prompting users to verify early to avoid disruption. The company says the move is intended to ensure “age-appropriate experiences” and align with new legal obligations aimed at protecting minors online.
To complete the process, Sony has partnered with identity verification provider Yoti. Players can verify their age using several methods, including a mobile phone number, facial scan, or official identification document.
The restrictions extend beyond basic messaging. Unverified users may also lose access to broadcasting tools, meaning they won’t be able to stream gameplay or share content to platforms like YouTube or Twitch directly from their console.
Sony’s approach mirrors similar measures introduced by other platforms, including Microsoft’s Xbox, as companies adjust to stricter online safety regulations.
The rollout has also sparked discussion around privacy, particularly due to the use of biometric checks and third-party services. While Sony says verification data is handled securely and deleted after use, critics argue that requiring sensitive personal information to access basic online features could raise broader concerns about data handling and digital rights.
For now, the policy applies only to the UK and Ireland, but it reflects a wider shift toward identity verification across online platforms as regulators push for stronger protections in digital spaces.