The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) employed artificial intelligence (AI) for the first time in 2025 to assist in the classification of streaming content, marking a notable development amid a record year for cinema film ratings. The organisation utilized the AI tool to support its assessment of the HBO Max catalogue in preparation for the streaming service’s UK launch earlier this year.

Over the course of 2025, the BBFC classified 1,315 feature films, the highest number in its 113-year history, according to the board’s annual report. This surge in film ratings reflects a sustained demand for cinema content, despite increasing competition from digital platforms.

Phil Clapp, chief executive of the UK Cinema Association, described the figures as evidence of the “resilience and vitality of the UK cinema sector” and highlighted growing interest from younger audiences attending theatrical screenings. These trends underscore a continued appetite for the cinema experience even as streaming services gain prominence.

In addition to the HBO Max project, the BBFC has partnered with Prime Video on a self-rating initiative, indicating a broader strategic shift towards collaboration with streaming platforms. The move aims to streamline classification processes in response to changing consumption patterns and the expanding volume of digital content.

Natasha Kaplinsky, president of the BBFC, characterised 2025 as a “year of enormous progress” for the organisation. She emphasized the board’s commitment to adopting new technologies to ensure that classification decisions are delivered efficiently and reach audiences widely.

The adoption of AI represents a new phase in the BBFC’s approach to managing the complexities of media classification, particularly as the volume and variety of content continue to grow across both cinemas and streaming services.