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Ofcom to Increase Oversight of Netflix, Amazon, Disney+

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. increase-oversight-of-netflix-amazon-disney.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 9:36 GMT by TheWrap
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By Alicia Dennis

Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 | 14:35 GMT

[ Image of Ofcom headquarters ]

Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator, today unveiled ambitious plans to significantly increase its oversight of major streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. The move, heralded as a necessary evolution in media regulation, seeks to ensure these platforms - now undeniably prominent players in the UK media landscape - adhere to standards of accessibility, content protection, and investment in British content.

The announcement, made this morning, signals a shift in how the UK regulates digital entertainment. For years, these streaming giants have operated with considerably less direct scrutiny than traditional broadcasters like the BBC, ITV, and Channel 4. While subject to general advertising standards, Ofcom lacked the authority to directly enforce broadcasting rules concerning content, accessibility, or promotion. This disparity has drawn increasing criticism, particularly as streaming services capture a larger share of viewing hours and advertising revenue.

Ofcom CEO Melanie Dawes emphasized the regulator's commitment to fostering a fair and inclusive media environment. "We're proposing new rules to make sure online streaming services are accessible and protect people, especially children, from potential harm," Dawes stated. This protection extends beyond simple content moderation; accessibility is a core tenet of the proposed regulations. Ofcom intends to mandate user-friendly interfaces for disabled viewers, requiring accurate and consistently available captions, audio descriptions, and other features that cater to diverse needs. This is a direct response to growing advocacy from disability rights groups who have long pointed to inconsistent accessibility standards across streaming platforms.

The push for greater accessibility isn't simply about compliance; it's about market equity. As more viewers 'cut the cord' and transition to streaming, the responsibility to provide inclusive content falls squarely on these platforms. Ofcom's proposals aim to guarantee that disabled viewers aren't left behind in this evolving entertainment landscape.

Beyond accessibility, content promotion and discoverability are at the heart of Ofcom's concerns. A key aspect of the proposed changes involves ensuring UK-produced content receives "prominent display" and "fair opportunities" alongside internationally-produced blockbusters. This is viewed as crucial for the sustainability of the British creative industries. Concerns have been raised that algorithmic curation on streaming services can inadvertently bury locally-made programs, reducing their visibility and hindering their success. Dawes explained, "We want to ensure that public-service content, like home-grown drama, comedy, and news, gets the visibility it deserves."

The regulator is acutely aware of the power these platforms wield over content discoverability. Simply having UK content available isn't enough; it must be actively promoted within the streaming service's interface. This could involve mandated placement in curated collections, featured slots on home screens, or adjustments to search algorithms to prioritize local content.

The proposed changes grant Ofcom significant new powers. Crucially, the regulator will gain the ability to investigate complaints, demand information from streaming services, and impose substantial fines for non-compliance. This enforcement power represents a major escalation in Ofcom's authority over the digital media space and signals a willingness to hold streaming services accountable for their actions. The lack of these powers previously meant Ofcom could only rely on the Advertising Standards Authority to address misleading promotions - a less direct and often slower process.

The consultation period, running until March 24th, will be critical. Ofcom is actively seeking feedback from both the public and industry stakeholders. This open dialogue aims to ensure the final regulations are both effective and proportionate, striking a balance between consumer protection, fostering creativity, and avoiding undue burdens on streaming services. Experts anticipate lively debate, particularly regarding the specifics of content promotion requirements and the potential impact on algorithmic curation. The outcome of this consultation will shape the future of streaming in the UK, potentially setting a precedent for regulators in other countries grappling with the same challenges.