Instagram and YouTube found liable in landmark social media addiction trial in California

A California jury found Meta's Instagram and YouTube liable in a landmark trial alleging the social media platforms knowingly designed addictive features that harmed children. The case represents the first successful liability verdict against major tech companies for social media addiction, potentially opening the door to similar lawsuits across the country. The verdict targets platforms' algorithmic recommendation systems and engagement-focused designs that experts say exploit developing brains and contribute to mental health problems in minors. The ruling could force Instagram and YouTube to redesign core features or face significant damages, setting a legal precedent for how social media platforms can be held accountable for their effects on young users. The case is expected to influence pending legislation and regulatory scrutiny of Big Tech's practices around child safety.