The European Union is increasing pressure on Meta to modify features on Facebook and Instagram after a preliminary investigation revealed that options like autoplay and infinite scroll are harmful to users' wellbeing. On Thursday, the European Commission (EC) announced its findings, stating that Meta did not sufficiently evaluate the risks associated with these addictive designs, particularly for minors and vulnerable adults.
EU's Findings on Addictive Design
The EC's investigation concluded that the features in question contribute to compulsive use, effectively putting users into an 'autopilot mode.' According to the commission, “These features fuel the user’s urge to keep scrolling and shift the brain into ‘autopilot mode,’ contributing to unhealthy habits.”
Meta has been given an opportunity to dispute these claims, and it has already taken a defensive stance. A spokesperson for Meta, Ben Walters, stated that the company disagrees with the EC’s findings, arguing that they do not accurately reflect the measures Meta has implemented to protect teens.
Meta's Response and Current Measures
In response to the investigation, Meta has introduced Teen Accounts that automatically protect minors and allow parents to control their children's access to Instagram. Walters mentioned that these accounts enable parents to block access at night and limit daily screen time to just 15 minutes.
However, the EC emphasized that these measures are insufficient. The commission noted that parental controls are only effective if parents have the necessary technical expertise, which is often lacking. “This undermines the efficiency of such measures in addressing the inherent risks posed by Instagram and Facebook’s addictive design,” the EC stated.
Potential Consequences for Non-Compliance
The EC has recommended that Meta consider disabling autoplay and infinite scroll by default, implementing effective screen time breaks, and adjusting its recommendation system to be less engagement-oriented. If Meta fails to comply with the EU’s Digital Services Act, the company could face fines up to 6% of its global annual turnover.
Henna Virkkunen, the EU’s tech chief, warned that the next steps depend on whether Meta modifies its design. “Our starting point is that, based on our findings, this design is too addictive and changes need to be made,” she said. The EU is committed to enforcing its legislation in Europe.
Additionally, Meta is facing scrutiny in the United States, where 29 states have filed a lawsuit claiming that its platforms are addictive to children. This trial, which begins in August, could result in penalties of up to $1.4 trillion if Meta is found guilty.
- Potential fines: Up to 6% of global turnover
- Teen Accounts: Daily screen time limit of 15 minutes
- Parental controls effectiveness: Requires technical expertise
- Upcoming trial: States seeking up to $1.4 trillion in penalties
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Ars Technica. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
