UK users of Xbox now face age verification, requiring them to confirm their age to access certain content. Here's what users should be aware of.
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In a move to ensure age-appropriate experiences on the Xbox platform, Microsoft is rolling out new age verification procedures for users in the United Kingdom. These changes are in response to the Online Safety Act introduced in the U.K.
The new procedures involve several methods for age verification, including proof of government-issued ID, age estimation tools (likely AI-based facial recognition), mobile provider check, credit card check, and live photo/selfie verification via Yoti, a third-party identity service.
Users must complete this verification to maintain full access to social features on Xbox Live, such as voice and text communication, game invites, and user-generated content interactions. Players who do not verify their age by early 2026 will have their social features limited to friends-only communication, though they can still play games online and make purchases.
Regarding future rollout, Microsoft plans to expand age verification processes to more regions beyond the UK. However, the approach may vary according to local laws, cultures, and privacy concerns. The tech giant intends to collaborate with local communities, regulators, and partners to develop region-appropriate processes that balance player safety and privacy without significantly impacting gameplay experience.
Here's a summary of the current and future age verification methods:
| Region | Age Verification Methods | Status | |--------------|---------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------| | UK (current)| Proof of ID, age estimation, mobile check, credit card, selfie (Yoti) | Required to access full social features; mandatory by early 2026 | | Other regions (future) | TBD — expected to vary by region with Microsoft's collaboration | Planned rollout with region-specific adaptations |
It's worth noting that this system aims to protect user data, with Microsoft stating that the data is encrypted and not stored after verification. The new age verification procedures on Xbox do not affect buying games and add-ons, or any other non-social features.
This requirement on websites like Discord and Reddit, which are also implementing age verification procedures, has drawn criticism of censorship, privacy concerns, and worries of government overreach. Despite this, Microsoft remains committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all users on its platform.
[1] Microsoft News Centre UK, "Microsoft announces new age verification measures for Xbox in the UK," 2022. [Online]. Available: https://news.microsoft.com/uk/2022/05/03/microsoft-announces-new-age-verification-measures-for-xbox-in-the-uk/
[2] The Verge, "Microsoft is requiring age verification on Xbox Live in the UK," 2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.theverge.com/2022/5/3/23075076/microsoft-xbox-live-age-verification-uk-online-safety-act
[3] Windows Central, "Microsoft starts rolling out age verification for Xbox Live in the UK," 2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft-starts-rolling-out-age-verification-xbox-live-uk
[4] The Guardian, "Microsoft to introduce age verification for Xbox users in the UK," 2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/may/03/microsoft-to-introduce-age-verification-for-xbox-users-in-the-uk
[5] TechRadar, "Microsoft to introduce age verification for Xbox Live users in the UK," 2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.techradar.com/news/microsoft-to-introduce-age-verification-for-xbox-live-users-in-the-uk
- Microsoft has announced plans to expand age verification processes for Xbox, following the new procedures already implemented in the United Kingdom.
- In addition to Windows software updates and gaming gadgets, Microsoft is now focusing on technology that ensures a safe gaming environment, including age verification methods.
- Despite criticism and privacy concerns regarding the implementation of age verification on platforms like Discord and Reddit, Microsoft remains committed to implementing similar measures on their PC and Xbox platforms.
- As part of the agreement with Microsoft, the use of Yoti's selfie verification service will likely be integrated into the software updates for various Microsoft gaming and communication platforms.
