Apple and Google have been given a three-month ultimatum to make it impossible for children to take, share or view nude images on their smartphones, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday.

The government wants firms to activate built-in features on their devices or come up with technological solutions on phones and tablets to detect and block such content.

It means all adults will need to verify their age if they want to take or view nude images.

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Firms must implement changes or face new legislation, which could lead to fines, and as a last resort, criminal liability for tech bosses.

The changes will apply to both existing and newly sold smartphones and tablets in the UK.

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In a speech at London Tech Week, Starmer said: “One issue is the ability for children with phones to send and receive nude images.

A child looks at his mobile phone. Photo: EPA/FAZRY ISMAIL
A child looks at his mobile phone. Photo: EPA/FAZRY ISMAIL