How a social media ban for under-16s is set to change how we all use the internet—and whether children will simply find new ways to circumvent the rules.

The government's plan could be the biggest shift in UK internet access, but critics argue it might not protect young people as much as hoped. Millions might need official ID to access various platforms from spring 2026.

Dr Tom Crawford shares maths skills with his YouTube subscribers, who will now have to find another source of knowledge. For some teenagers, social media is a lifeline and a primary way of engaging with the world.

Campaigners welcome the ban but fear it might isolate young people from communities and information. SEO expert Mehwish Malik argues that Gen Z uses TikTok as their gateway to trusted brands and for research purposes.

Parents, educators and tech companies all have concerns about how to navigate this new landscape without leaving a gaping knowledge gap.