What in the World Are Instagram and YouTube 'addiction machines'?
Feb 11, 2026
Lily Jamali, BBC North America technology correspondent based in LA, walks through a landmark California trial over alleged social media harms. She outlines claims that platforms were engineered to hook young people. She describes defenses from Meta and YouTube, who deny liability, and previews who might testify and the potential legal fallout.
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A Test Case With Nationwide Reach
- The California trial tests whether platforms intentionally designed features that addicted young users and harmed mental health.
- The case serves as a test case that could influence thousands of similar lawsuits across the US.
Companies Sought More Time, Lawyers Say
- Plaintiff lawyers argue Meta and YouTube built "machines" using algorithms and notifications to keep children scrolling on purpose.
- They say internal documents show companies pursued more time on platform as a business goal tied to revenue.
Meta Points To Preexisting Hardship
- Meta argues Instagram was not a substantial factor in Kaylee's mental health struggles and points to family trauma predating platform use.
- Meta frames the trial as centering on whether Instagram, not wider life issues, caused her harms.