Will Apple and Google block nude images on phones?

The UK government will reportedly encourage Apple and Google to implement systems that block nude images by default, requiring age verification for adults.

How will the UK government protect children from explicit content?

The government plans to push for age verification measures on devices to prevent children from accessing or sharing nude images.

Is the UK making nudity blockers mandatory for phones?

For now, the UK government will encourage companies to adopt these measures, rather than making them a legal requirement.

Home / Technology / UK Eyes Phone Nudity Blocks for Kids

UK Eyes Phone Nudity Blocks for Kids

16 Dec

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Summary

UK government will reportedly ask tech firms to block nude images.
Adults would need to verify age to view or create explicit content.
The move is part of a strategy to tackle violence against women.

The UK government is set to propose that major technology companies, including Apple and Google, implement default systems to block nude images on phones and computers. The initiative, aimed at safeguarding children, would require users to verify their age before they can create or access explicit content.

This measure is intended to be integrated into device operating systems, potentially using methods like biometric checks or official identification for age verification. While initially focused on mobile devices, the scope could expand to include desktop computers. Government officials have pointed to existing content scanning technologies in platforms like Microsoft Teams as a precedent.

The Home Office is expected to announce this proposal as part of its strategy to address violence against women and girls. Although mandatory controls for devices sold in the UK have been explored, the government has opted for an encouragement-based approach for the time being, reserving the possibility of future legal requirements.