Meta, YouTube design apps to addict kids, jury hears as landmark trial begins
The Hindu
Meta Platforms and YouTube deliberately designed products they knew would addict children, a lawyer for a woman suing the two companies told jurors in California on Monday
Meta Platforms and YouTube deliberately designed products they knew would addict children, a lawyer for a woman suing the two companies told jurors in California on Monday at a trial that will test whether Big Tech platforms can be held liable for their app design.
The 20-year-old woman identified as Kaley G.M. in court is suing Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta Platforms and Alphabet’s Google, which owns YouTube.
Kaley was hooked on social media at a young age because of the apps’ addictive design, her lawyer Mark Lanier told jurors. Lanier said that internal company documents show that, “these companies built machines designed to addict the brains of children, and they did it on purpose.”
Lawyers for Meta and YouTube were expected to give opening statements on Monday afternoon. Both companies have denied the allegations.
A verdict against the tech companies could smooth the way for similar cases in state court, and shake the industry’s longstanding U.S. legal defence against claims of user harm. Google, Meta, TikTok and Snap face thousands of lawsuits in California.
Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to be called as a witness at the trial, which is likely to stretch into March. TikTok and Snap settled with Kaley before the trial.
Delhi High Court requests CBI's response to Jaideep Sengar's plea for interim bail extension due to health issues.
Karnataka government aims to register 18,791 unrecorded school properties with new legislation to protect educational institutions.
Bengaluru's Deputy CM announces fare hike pause for reassessment, considering costs and CPI, amid political discussions and protests.
The Hindu Morning Digest gives a select list of stories to start the day. Read the top news today on February 10, 2026.
Maharashtra's three-language panel submits crucial education report, recommending implementation and integrating AI in primary schools.
Andhra Pradesh's GSDP growth of 10.75% surpasses the national average, highlighting strong economic performance and future growth ambitions.
Civil Aviation Minister prioritizes national defense projects over Hosur airport proposal, citing operational readiness for defense forces.
The Centre has allocated ₹10,354.15 crore for CMRL's phase II project, with nearly 49% of construction completed.
Explore whether India's cigarette taxes effectively deter consumption, falling short of WHO's recommended benchmark for public health.
Bengaluru's Deputy CM pauses metro fare hike for reassessment, citing operating costs and CPI, amid political disputes.
The Industrial Relations Code must ensure job security while adapting to AI advancements and changing labor market dynamics.
India’s coffee sector is steadily moving from a commodity-led approach to a quality and experience-driven market, said the coffee community here on Monday.
District Magistrate permits KSRTC buses in Mangaluru CBD, enhancing public transport access for women, students, and patients.