Meta and YouTube Face Historic Trial Over Allegedly Designing Addictive Platforms for Children

A landmark trial began this week in California to determine whether major tech companies such as Meta and YouTube can be held legally accountable for allegedly designing social media platforms in ways that intentionally make children addicted.

The lawsuit was filed by Kaley G.M., now 20 years old, who claims she began using these platforms at a young age, leading to serious mental health struggles including depression and suicidal thoughts.

Allegations: Platforms Engineered to Hook Children

During opening arguments, Kaley’s attorney, Mark Lanier, told the court that internal company documents show these platforms were deliberately engineered to affect children’s brain development and maximize engagement.

Meta’s defense attorney, Paul Schmidt, rejected the allegations, arguing that there is no evidence linking the structure of Instagram or other Meta platforms to the plaintiff’s mental health issues. He suggested that her struggles stemmed from family history rather than social media use.

He told the jury:
“If you shut down Instagram and she lived the same life she lived, would her life be different?”

High-Profile Testimonies Expected

The trial, expected to continue through March, will include testimony from prominent figures, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

This case is one of thousands filed in California courts by parents, school districts, and other plaintiffs alleging that social media platforms have harmed children.

Growing Global Regulation

While debates continue in the United States over children’s access to social media, countries such as Australia and Spain have begun implementing stricter laws restricting social media use for those under 16.

Legal analysts say the outcome of this case could significantly reshape how social media platforms operate worldwide, particularly in relation to child safety and digital responsibility.