YouTube updates its live streaming policy: users under 16 can no longer stream alone and must be supervised by an adult to ensure child safety online.
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| YouTube has banned users under 16 from going live without a guardian. The change is part of enhanced safety rules aimed at protecting minors on the platform. Image: CH |
San Bruno, USA – July 11, 2025:
YouTube has introduced sweeping changes to its livestreaming policy, aimed at strengthening the protection of minors on the platform. Under the new rules, users under the age of 16 will no longer be allowed to livestream on their own. Creators aged between 13 and 15 must now be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or another adult when broadcasting live.
The updated policy replaces the previous age threshold of 13, marking a significant step forward in YouTube’s child safety framework. The adult supervisor may act as a co-host, editor, or even manage a separate adult channel to facilitate the livestream on behalf of the minor.
“YouTube is committed to building a safer space for all users, especially children and teens. This update ensures responsible streaming and closer family involvement,” the company stated.
The change is expected to foster a rise in family co-streaming, where parents and children collaborate on live content. It also means adults will be tasked not only with technical oversight but also with real-time supervision of the minor’s online behavior during streams.
To enable this new system, YouTube will support digital infrastructure that allows adults to control stream settings and monitor participation. The move is likely to cultivate a more responsible streaming environment while encouraging meaningful digital engagement between generations.
However, livestreaming as a format comes with challenges, particularly around privacy and real-time content moderation. Experts suggest families establish clear guidelines about what can be shared publicly and what should remain private before going live.
The policy applies globally and is effective immediately for all users who use YouTube as a creative platform. While online voting and streaming tools are evolving, this change signals YouTube's renewed focus on user protection, especially for its youngest creators.
YouTube Kids, the platform’s child-specific service, remains available with stronger content restrictions. But for minors using the main YouTube platform, this new rule clearly states: no live-streaming without adult involvement until the age of 16.