Teen users of Instagram and Facebook can expect changes as Meta, the parent company, has agreed to implement platform design modifications for young users and pay up to $18 billion US over the next decade to address claims of online harms to youth from various U.S. states and territories. This settlement has been described by a coalition of U.S. attorneys general as the most significant state consumer protection settlement in history, excluding the Big Tobacco settlements of the 1990s.
Canadian tech analyst Carmi Levy likened this development to a pivotal moment for the social media industry, similar to the tobacco industry’s historical turning point. Levy emphasized that Meta and similar companies will witness significant changes moving forward.
What’s in store for teen users?
New measures will be implemented for users under 18 on Instagram and Facebook, including time limits, blackout periods, enhanced feed controls, limits on social comparison features, and stricter age verification processes. Meta also pledges to enhance existing safety measures and may further tighten restrictions if rival platforms adopt similar measures.
While the settlement primarily impacts the U.S. market, there is anticipation that these changes may eventually extend globally due to widespread concerns about negative social media effects on youth in various countries.
Impact on Canadian teens
Although the settlement directly affects the U.S., tech analyst Carmi Levy believes that the changes could eventually reach Canada and other countries as well. Companies like Meta typically implement global changes rather than region-specific features.
Enhancing social media safety
Jenny Perez, founder of Unplugged Canada, views the settlement as a positive step but highlights that social media companies need to address a broader range of safety concerns beyond what is currently proposed. Digital media expert Richard Lachman acknowledges the benefits of curbing compulsive social media use but underscores the need for independent scrutiny of companies’ safety claims.
Regulatory implications in Canada
Toronto-based tech analyst Ritesh Kotak suggests that Meta’s settlement could set a precedent for resolving similar lawsuits and regulatory challenges. Legal professor David Fewer sees potential alignment with Canada’s proposed online safety legislation but emphasizes the need for more comprehensive regulations, particularly regarding addictive algorithm design.
Despite the settlement, concerns remain about the broader impact of social media platforms on users, with experts pointing out that addictive platform design affects users of all ages, not just teens. Meta’s focus on resolving social media issues to pivot towards artificial intelligence reflects its strategic goals amid ongoing legal challenges.