Starting from July 22 this year, YouTube is independently raising the minimum age limit for live streaming to 16 years old.
Teens aged 13–15 can stream only in the presence of an adult. Otherwise, they might be deprived of access to chat and other features.
YouTube announced significant changes in its security policy effective July 22 this year: users under 16 cannot independently conduct a live stream unless an adult is visible in the frame and is not registered as a manager, editor, or owner of the channel.
If the rule is violated:
- chat will be closed;
- broadcast features will be restricted;
- the live stream may be turned off.
Bypassing the rules (for example, organizing a stream through another channel) is considered a violation of the ban and may lead to the closing of the account.
Although YouTube has not officially disclosed the reason for the changes, it is said that this step is aimed at protecting teens from the risks of live streams without adult supervision — including the spread of personal information, unpleasant interactions in chat, and other dangers.
As YouTube points out, streaming is considered an "unpredictable format" that requires special oversight.
According to the platform's opinion, these changes might pose challenges for new bloggers, but the safety of children is paramount above all outcomes.
