EU Demands Changes to Meta's Facebook and Instagram Design
Meta must modify Facebook's and Instagram's "addictive" design elements or risk a substantial fine, the European Union has warned.
According to preliminary findings from the European Commission, features such as infinite scroll, autoplaying videos, and personalised recommendations may promote "compulsive use," especially among children and teenagers.
If Meta fails to implement appropriate changes, it could face fines amounting to up to 6% of its total global annual turnover.
A spokesperson for Meta told the BBC that the company disagrees with the findings, stating they "don't accurately take into account the significant steps we've taken to protect teens."
Concerns Over Compulsive Use and Youth Impact
The Commission's preliminary report highlighted that the endless stream of content "shifts the brain into autopilot mode, contributing to unhealthy habits."
It expressed particular concern about the effects social media platforms may have on younger users.
"Protecting the physical and mental health of Europeans must be a priority for social media platforms," EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen said in a statement.
The Commission stated that Meta has not sufficiently assessed the risks associated with the design of Facebook and Instagram, nor the duration children spend on these platforms, especially during nighttime hours.
It raised specific concerns about features such as Reels and Stories, suggesting they could lead to excessive use, and argued that Meta's existing safeguards are inadequate.
The Commission also noted that time-management tools on Facebook and Instagram, including those enabled by default for teenagers, can be easily dismissed and do not significantly reduce usage.
Additionally, it criticised Meta's parental controls, claiming they are only effective if parents possess the time and technical expertise to understand and properly use them.
Meta responded by stating it has introduced Teen Accounts that "automatically protect teens and put parents in control - allowing them to block access to Instagram at night and cap daily screen time at just 15 minutes."
Next Steps and Ongoing Engagement
The findings are not a final decision. Meta now has the opportunity to review the evidence presented and submit a formal response.
A Meta spokesperson said,
"We share the European Commission's commitment to providing teens with safe, positive online experiences and will continue to engage constructively with them."
In recent months, the EU has intensified efforts to compel major technology companies to enhance user protections online, particularly for children.
The Commission's findings arrive ahead of recommendations expected on Monday from an expert panel assigned to propose new measures to shield children from harmful online content.
The EU faces mounting pressure to act, with countries such as France advocating for social media bans for minors, following Australia's restrictions for users under 16.
Related Developments
- Meta initiates High Court challenge over Ofcom fees
- TikTok instructed by EU to alter 'addictive design' or face significant fines
- Meta ordered to pay $375 million for misleading users about child safety
- EU President von der Leyen calls for delayed social media access for children
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