The prime minister has given Apple and Google a three-month ultimatum: activate built-in features to block children from taking, sending or viewing sexually explicit images on their devices, or face legislation that could impose fines and even criminal liability.
Speaking at London Tech Week, Sir Keir Starmer said the demand applies to both existing and newly-sold smartphones and tablets in the UK. “This is not an impossible challenge,” he told the audience. “These are some of the most innovative companies in the world and I believe they can solve it.”
“UK PM Starmer gives Apple and Google three months to block children's access to nude images or face legislation.”
Under the voluntary plan, tech firms must act within three months. If they do not, the government said it will bring forward legislation to force compliance – including fines or, as a last resort, criminal liability for companies that do not comply. Adults who verify their age would be unaffected.
A Google spokesperson said the company “is deeply committed to protecting children online” and is “working constructively with UK partners to find effective, privacy-preserving solutions that deter the spread of harmful content while ensuring a safe digital environment for young people.” Apple has not responded to the BBC’s request for comment.
Both companies already have some measures in place. Apple recently began asking UK iPhone users to verify their age to ensure only adults access over-18 apps and sites. Its “Communication Safety” feature, turned on by default for under-18s with a Child Account, warns children when they send or receive nude images across Messages, AirDrop and FaceTime, and directs them to support. Google’s Messages app on Android handsets blurs sensitive content for users supervised by a parent or guardian.
The government highlighted an AI tool developed by safety tech firm SafeToNet as an example of how firms can scale on-device detection and blocking of nude images for children. However, some believe the go-