YouTube will increase the minimum age for live streaming to 16

YouTube is increasing the minimum age requirement for live streaming from 13 to 16, effective July 22. Creators under 16 will need to be accompanied by an adult to live stream, or grant an adult access to their channel as an editor, manager, or owner. Previously, children under 13 needed to be accompanied by an adult, but now this rule extends to those between 13-15. Those who don't comply risk having their live chat disabled and access to other features revoked. YouTube may eventually remove live streams that break the rules, and restrict or terminate accounts that violate the policy. Creators affected by the rule change will be notified by email if their streams are taken down. Adults co-creating with someone under 16 must be visibly present and equally involved in the live stream. The reason for this change is unclear, but it will likely impact younger creators with large audiences. YouTube will allow adults to start a stream from the account linked to the channel, rather than the Live Control room. The platform aims to ensure a safer environment for its users, particularly minors. The rule change may lead to a significant shift in the way younger creators produce and share content on the platform.