Online Communication
Ongoing coverage on Online Communication.
Latest coverage
The KIDS bill moving through Congress prompts concerns about stifled speech and intrusive age verification
The Kids Internet and Digital Safety Act (KIDS Act) has passed the House of Representatives, proposing new regulations for online video games concerning child safety and communication. Opponents raise concerns about mandatory age verification, potential stifling of free speech, and the removal of a 'duty of care' provision, despite the bill's stated aim of protecting minors.
PlayStation Voice And Text Chat Will Require Age Restriction Later This Year
Sony Interactive Entertainment will require age verification later this year for users to continue using PlayStation's text and voice chat features. This measure aims to ensure safe, age-appropriate experiences while respecting privacy. Players will still be able to access games, trophies, and the PlayStation Store without verification.
Sony will require age checks in the UK and Ireland to access PlayStation communication features
Sony will implement new age verification policies for PlayStation users in the UK and Ireland starting in June 2026. This will be required to access communication features such as party chat, voice and text messaging, and some in-game communication tools. The move follows similar legislation and policies adopted by other companies to protect younger users.
PS5 Age Verification Coming to UK and Ireland, Needed for Messages and Voice Chat
Sony is implementing age verification for PlayStation 5 users in the UK and Ireland later this year to comply with regulations. Players will need to verify their age via facial scan, ID, or mobile number to continue using messaging and voice chat features. This move aligns with new age verification laws for online services in these regions.
Sony Has Global Plans For PlayStation Age Verification - Report
Sony Interactive Entertainment is reportedly planning a global rollout of age verification for PlayStation users to access online communication features. This initiative aims to comply with global regulations and ensure age-appropriate experiences, though users will still be able to access games and the store without verification. The company is working with Yoti for this process, despite the company facing fines for data mishandling in Spain.
Overwatch Season 2 adds post-match voice chat, which is such a bad idea that Blizzard is already warning players: "Banter is encouraged, abusive communication is not"
Overwatch 2's Season 2 update introduces post-match voice chat for unranked and competitive play, allowing communication with both teammates and opponents during the Accolades and Play of the Game segments. Blizzard has issued a warning to players, encouraging banter but discouraging abusive communication.
Video game PEGI age-ratings are changing in Europe and it's probably not good news for EA FC Sports
PEGI, the Pan-European Game Information age-ratings body, is implementing significant updates to its criteria in June. These changes will introduce new categories to address addictive design, unmonitored online communication, and paid content, including loot boxes. Games like EA Sports FC, previously rated PEGI 3, may now receive a PEGI 16 rating due to in-app purchases like Ultimate Team card packs.
