Google-owned YouTube is updating its live streaming policies with a focus on protecting young users. The most significant change is the elevation of the minimum age for live streaming from 13 to 16 years old, which will be enforced starting July 22nd. This policy update means that users below the age of 16 will not be able to start their own live streams. YouTube has stated that these changes are implemented to boost the safety of minors and to minimize potential risks that children could face while they are engaging with online content and audiences.
Even with the new regulations, teenagers under 16 will still be allowed to participate in live streams if they are accompanied by an adult co-streamer. If this condition is not met, YouTube may choose to disable the live chat or remove the stream. This adjustment in policy might create new challenges for young creators who want to stream on their own; they will now have to designate a parent or adult as a channel manager. While these restrictions might lead to disappointment for some aspiring young streamers, YouTube has reaffirmed that the protection of minors is a top priority for the company.