What apps will be banned in UK under-16s social media ban?

Sir Keir confirmed the plans at a press conference at Downing Street on Monday, June 15, sharing: “The government will ban access to social media for all children under the age of 16.”

He said: “This is not something I do lightly, and I will not present it as cost-free, as if social media has brought no benefits to young people, because clearly that is wrong.

“But government is always about choices, and it’s clear to me that a full ban is the right choice.

“I come to it as a parent myself. I know exactly the fears that we all feel when we’re thinking about this issue.

“All I’ve ever wanted for my own children, hand on heart, is for them to be happy and for them to be safe, and I think that’s what any parent wants, but I ask the question now, ‘do we truly believe that social media creates a happy environment for our children?’

“Do we truly believe that it’s a place where they can feel safe? I don’t think I even need to answer those questions, do I?

“Every parent can see it with their own eyes. Social media is making children unhappy.”

What apps will be banned as part of the under-16 social media ban?

More details on the exact apps have yet to be confirmed, but it’s understood that social media platforms, TikTok, Instagram, Threads, Facebook, X, YouTube, Snapchat, and Reddit will be banned for under-16s.

The ban will also stop under-16s from accessing romantic or sexual AI chatbots.

The PM did confirm that there will be a limit on their ability to chat with strangers on gaming and live-streaming platforms.

The ban is expected to come into full force by Spring 2027.

Sir Keir said that the ban will give children “more freedom to grow up” and “more opportunity”.

The PM has announced a social media ban. (Image: Danny Lawson/PA Wire)

Why is social media being banned for under-16s?

The ban comes in response to overwhelming support during a government consultation, which found that 91 per cent of parents backed raising the minimum age for social media access to 16.

The consultation on the proposals closed on May 26 and drew about 116,000 responses, making it the second-largest in history.

More than 83 per cent of parents who responded said the risks of social media outweigh the benefits for children.

Among younger respondents, 62 per cent said restricting high-risk features would improve their safety online.

However, 72 per cent expressed concerns about feeling left out if such restrictions were introduced.

Do you agree with a social media ban for under-16s? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.