Google is getting ready to introduce a new rule for YouTube users, which will stop everyone from being able to go live on the platform.
This change is aimed at better protecting children and young users. Starting from July 22, the minimum age to host a YouTube live stream will increase from 13 to 16 years.
Teens under 16 can no longer live stream alone
According to a TOI report, teens under 16 will no longer be allowed to go live on their own unless certain safety steps are taken.
YouTube says this rule is meant to protect kids and teens from the dangers of being in front of large online audiences while streaming.
YouTube’s support page says, “These updates are part of our ongoing effort to protect children and teens on YouTube.”
New rules for younger teens
Teens younger than 16 can still appear in live streams, but only with some conditions. They must be with an adult on camera.
If not, YouTube might turn off the live chat or even remove the live stream. If a teen wants to host their own stream, extra rules apply.
A parent or another adult must be added as a channel manager, must start the stream using YouTube’s Live Control Room, and must be visible on screen the entire time.
A step to protect children from harmful content
This new policy is part of YouTube’s continued efforts to protect children. The platform regularly reminds its young users to follow privacy best practices, like not sharing personal information on camera and using chat moderation tools to keep conversations safe.
Machine learning to help detect real age
In February, YouTube said it began using machine learning to better guess users’ real ages.
This system helps stop children from watching content that may not be safe for them.
