Microsoft has started rolling out age verification prompts for Xbox players in the UK to comply with the country’s Online Safety Act, affecting users who have indicated they are over 18 years old.
The tech giant is working with Yoti to facilitate the age verification process, which is currently optional but will become mandatory for accessing certain Xbox social features in early 2026. This move aligns with the full enforcement of additional provisions within the UK’s Online Safety Act. Xbox users in the UK will be required to verify their age to retain full access to social features such as voice or text communication and game invites, according to Kim Kunes, Vice President of Gaming Trust and Safety at Xbox.
Unverified users will have their social features restricted to interactions with friends only until they complete the verification process. Kunes assured that the new requirement will not affect existing user data or capabilities, stating, “Whether a player verifies their age will not affect any previous purchases, entitlements, gameplay history, achievements, or the ability to play and purchase games.” She encouraged users to verify their age early to ensure uninterrupted access to social features.
While the age verification process is initially limited to the UK, Microsoft plans to expand it to other regions in the future. The company noted that the specific verification methods may vary depending on the region and user experience. UK Xbox users can verify their age through various online methods, including submitting a selfie, scanning a passport or driver’s license, undergoing a credit card check, or utilizing a mobile number.
