Meta · European Union · Facebook · Instagram · The Register
EU puts 'addictive' design of Facebook, Instagram under the DSA microscope
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◎ Multiple-sources
Brussels says Meta failed to properly assess or mitigate risks posed by infinite scroll, autoplay, and more.
Key facts
- Meta may have breached the European Union's Digital Services Act by designing Facebook and Instagram to keep users glued to their screens, with Brussels saying that features such as infinite scroll
- The Commission argues that Meta underestimated the effect those features can have on users, particularly children and vulnerable adults
- Protecting the physical and mental health of Europeans must be a priority for social media platforms," said Henna Virkkunen, executive vice president for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy
- Meta did not immediately respond to The Register's request for comment. ®
Summary
Meta may have breached the European Union's Digital Services Act by designing Facebook and Instagram to keep users glued to their screens, with Brussels saying that features such as infinite scroll and autoplay should be switched off by default. The European Commission on Friday published preliminary findings accusing the social media giant of failing to properly assess or mitigate the risks posed by what it describes as the addictive design of its platforms. The Commission argues that Meta underestimated the effect those features can have on users, particularly children and vulnerable adults. The Commission also says Meta ignored evidence showing how long minors spend on Facebook and Instagram at night, and failed to account for how products such as Reels and Stories could encourage excessive use.