Bangkok Post – “Accusations Against Meta and YouTube in California’s Social Media Trial”

A California state court case is set to begin on Monday, focusing on whether Instagram and YouTube are responsible for harming a woman’s mental health through their addictive app design. This legal battle tests the accountability of Big Tech platforms in relation to mental health issues, particularly for younger users.

The plaintiff argues that the addictive nature of these social media applications contributed to serious mental health struggles. This marks a significant moment, as it challenges the prevailing notion that tech companies operate with immunity regarding the effects of their products. The case could establish a critical precedent for future lawsuits against similar platforms.

As the courtroom prepares for opening statements, the implications of this trial extend far beyond the individual case. Key questions will arise about the ethics of app design and the responsibilities companies have to their users. The outcome may influence how tech giants approach user engagement in the future, especially concerning children and mental health.