EU demands Facebook, Instagram dismantle design features it calls addictive for users

New Delhi, India Jul 10, 2026 ALN: The European Union (EU) has recently escalated its scrutiny of Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, by accusing it of violating the Digital Services Act (DSA). This accusation stems from the EU's belief that Meta has intentionally designed its platforms to be addictive, thereby compromising the mental and physical health of its users, particularly minors. The EU's executive body has called for the dismantling of certain features deemed addictive, such as infinite scrolling and autoplay video functions, which are integral to the user experience on these platforms.

The Digital Services Act, enacted to regulate the digital landscape in the EU, imposes stringent obligations on tech companies to ensure user safety and accountability. This legislation is particularly focused on protecting vulnerable groups, including children and adolescents, from harmful online practices. The act was a response to growing concerns over the influence of social media and digital platforms on society, particularly in terms of misinformation, user privacy, and mental health. The EU's recent actions against Meta are part of a larger trend in which regulators worldwide are increasingly holding tech companies accountable for their designs and practices that may lead to addiction and other negative health outcomes.

According to the European Commission, Meta has not adequately assessed the risks associated with its design features, which may lead to compulsive usage patterns. This lack of assessment is particularly concerning given the potential impacts on young users, who may be more susceptible to the effects of addictive design. The Commission noted that while Meta has introduced various tools intended to help users manage their time on the platforms, these tools are often ineffective. For instance, screen time controls can be easily overridden, and the complexity of these features may discourage parents from utilizing them effectively. This raises questions about the adequacy of the measures taken by Meta to protect its younger audience, as well as the overall responsibility of tech companies in safeguarding user welfare.

In its preliminary findings, the Commission has urged Meta to implement significant design changes. Specifically, it has recommended disabling addictive features by default, rather than requiring users to opt-out. This includes not only infinite scrolling but also autoplay video functions, which keep users engaged for longer periods without their active consent. The aim of these recommendations is to foster a healthier online environment that prioritizes user well-being over engagement metrics. This shift in focus is indicative of a broader movement within regulatory circles to prioritize mental health and user safety in the digital age.

Meta has responded to these allegations, asserting that the EU's preliminary findings do not adequately reflect the measures the company has already taken to enhance the safety of its younger users. The company highlighted the introduction of Teen Accounts, which are designed to automatically protect teenagers by allowing parents to set restrictions on screen time and access. Meta emphasized its commitment to providing a safe online experience for teens and expressed a willingness to engage constructively with EU regulators. This response is part of a larger strategy by Meta to mitigate regulatory pressures and demonstrate its dedication to user safety, especially in light of increased scrutiny from various governments and advocacy groups.

Henna Virkkunen, an executive vice-president at the European Commission, has reiterated the EU's commitment to enforcing legislation that holds social media platforms accountable for their design choices. Virkkunen stated that protecting the physical and mental health of users, particularly young people, must be a priority for social media companies. This sentiment reflects a broader societal concern regarding the impact of social media on mental health, particularly in light of rising rates of anxiety and depression among adolescents. The EU's position underscores the growing recognition of the need for regulatory frameworks that not only address user safety but also promote healthier online environments.

The addictive nature of social media platforms has been a topic of increasing scrutiny in recent years. Features like personalized recommendations and push notifications are designed to keep users engaged, often leading to prolonged usage that can detract from real-life interactions and responsibilities. The European Commission's findings suggest that these design elements can place users' cognitive processes on "autopilot," making it difficult for individuals to disengage from the platforms. This phenomenon raises significant concerns about the long-term implications of excessive social media use, particularly for younger audiences who are still developing their social and emotional skills.

The preliminary findings against Meta are not isolated incidents; they follow a series of investigations initiated by the EU in 2024, aimed at ensuring that tech giants are taking adequate measures to protect children online. Earlier this year, the EU reported that Meta had failed to prevent children under the age of 13 from signing up for its services, which raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of age verification measures. Moreover, the company has been criticized for not doing enough to identify and remove underage users once they have created accounts. These issues highlight the challenges that regulators face in enforcing age restrictions and ensuring that social media platforms uphold their responsibilities to protect vulnerable users.

The implications of the EU's actions against Meta are significant, not only for the company but also for the broader tech industry. If the EU proceeds with its recommendations and enforces changes in how social media platforms operate, it could set a precedent that influences regulations in other regions, including North America and Asia. The potential for hefty fines—up to 6 percent of a company's global annual revenue—serves as a strong deterrent against non-compliance and may encourage other tech companies to reevaluate their design practices. This could lead to a more standardized approach to user safety across the digital landscape, with companies adopting best practices to avoid regulatory penalties.

Moreover, the EU's focus on user well-being could lead to a shift in how social media platforms are developed and marketed. As regulators increasingly prioritize mental health and user safety, companies may need to adopt more responsible design practices that align with these values. This could involve creating features that promote healthy usage habits, such as reminders for breaks and tools that encourage users to engage with content mindfully. Such changes would not only benefit users but could also enhance the credibility and public perception of these platforms, fostering a more positive relationship between tech companies and their audiences.

As the investigation progresses, Meta will have the opportunity to respond to the Commission's findings and present its case. The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching consequences not only for Meta but also for the future of social media regulation in the EU and beyond. The ongoing dialogue between regulators and tech companies will be crucial in shaping a digital landscape that balances user engagement with ethical considerations surrounding mental health and well-being. As this dialogue unfolds, it will be essential for all stakeholders—regulators, tech companies, and users—to engage in constructive discussions that prioritize the health and safety of individuals in the digital age.