Speaking at London Tech Week, Sir Keir Starmer delivered an unusually direct challenge to the world’s most powerful tech companies: block sexually explicit images on children’s smartphones within three months – or face the law. The prime minister told Apple and Google to activate built-in features or update their software to prevent under-18s from taking, sending or viewing nude imagery on devices. “This is not an impossible challenge,” Starmer said. “These are some of the most innovative companies in the world and I believe they can solve it.”
The government has set a deadline of autumn for voluntary compliance. If the firms fail to act, legislation will be brought forward to force them – including fines and, as a last resort, criminal liability. The changes would apply to both existing and newly-sold smartphones and tablets in the UK. Crucially, adults who verify their age will not be affected, a move designed to head off privacy concerns. “Legislation could cover operating system providers and others in the supply chain, such as retailers,” Starmer added.
“Starmer gives Apple and Google three months to block nude images on children's phones or face legislation.”
Both companies already have some tools in place. Apple’s “Communication Safety” feature, turned on by default for children with a Child Account, warns them when they send or receive nude images across Messages, AirDrop and FaceTime, and offers reporting and support. Google’s Messages app on Android has similar settings to blur sensitive content for users supervised by a parent or guardian. But the prime minister wants universal, mandatory activation – not optional settings parents must find.
In response, a Google spokesperson said the company was “deeply committed to protecting children online” and was “working constructively with UK partners to find effective, privacy-preserving solutions”. Apple did not respond to the BBC’s request for comment.
The government has also highlighted an AI tool from safety tech firm SafeToNet as an example of how on-device detection can work at scale. But it remained unclear on Monday what concrete steps Apple and Google will take in the coming months.
If they stall, Starmer’s ultimatum is clear: comply voluntarily, or be compelled by law.