The United Kingdom plans to ban social media access for anyone under 16, and separately prohibit AI-powered romantic companion chatbots for users under 18, following Australia's lead in restricting youth internet use. According to Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government, the restrictions aim to restore childhood experiences—as the announcement states, 'less time for scrolling and more time for play.' The measures reflect escalating concerns about social media's impact on youth mental health and the risks of AI systems designed to simulate intimate relationships.

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