Well, yes, there is that.

That’s not what I’m saying. I’m saying governments could force MS, Google, Apple to implement content filtering tools at the OS level, that give users the choice to set up filtering however they want for themselves or their kids.

Those against website age verification argue that content blocking should happen at the OS level. For example, a parent could enable the built-in “child mode” on their child’s smartphone or computer. As I understand it, that would be more effective, graceful, cheaper, free speechy, and private. To a degree, tech savvy parents (and people who block ads and other content) already do similar things with third party tools - i.e. it’s feasible.

Everyone should have content filtering tools. I use Adguard services for filtering my own internet (adult, Reddit, YouTube, etc.). Surely, implimenting something similar at an OS or router level would have saved us decades of pointless bickering and provided us with an actual consumer benefit?

Everything is an advertisement now. We even made ourselves into our own advertisements. The number 1 childhood aspiration is to become the most effective advertisement.