Meta Platforms is facing a major US federal trial over allegations that Facebook and Instagram were designed in ways that could encourage addictive use among children and teenagers. The case, which began in Oakland, California, brings together attorneys general from 29 US states and could have significant consequences for how social media companies design products for younger users.

The lawsuit argues that Meta prioritized keeping users engaged while failing to adequately address risks associated with its platforms. Meta has rejected the allegations and says it has introduced extensive protections for teenagers.

Why Is Meta Facing Trial?

The case focuses on whether Meta's product design and business practices violated consumer-protection and child-privacy laws.

Prosecutors allege that certain features on Facebook and Instagram, including infinite scrolling, personalized recommendations and frequent notifications, were designed to encourage users to remain on the platforms and return repeatedly.

The states argue that these mechanisms can be particularly influential among younger users, whose online habits and behaviour may still be developing.

The case also includes allegations concerning the collection and use of children's personal information, including claims involving users under the age of 13 and parental consent requirements.

What Do the States Want From Meta?

The legal action goes beyond seeking financial penalties.

The states are pushing for changes to the way Facebook and Instagram operate, including stronger age restrictions and modifications to engagement-driven features. One proposal specifically targets infinite scrolling, while other demands relate to the handling of data connected to minors.

The potential financial exposure has attracted considerable attention. Meta has indicated that the maximum damages discussed in the case could theoretically reach around $1.4 trillion, although state attorneys general have suggested that a figure closer to $200 billion could be more realistic if liability is established.

Meta Rejects the Addiction Claims

Meta has strongly disputed the allegations.

The company says it has spent years developing tools intended to create safer, age-appropriate experiences for teenagers. In 2026, Meta announced additional measures involving age assurance and expanded protections for teen accounts across Instagram, Facebook and Messenger.

Meta's position is that the states have not demonstrated that its platforms caused the specific harm alleged in the lawsuit. The company has also criticized the scale of the potential financial claims.

Zuckerberg and Mosseri Could Testify

The trial is expected to draw attention beyond the courtroom because senior Meta executives are expected to appear as witnesses.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram chief Adam Mosseri are among the executives expected to testify during proceedings that are scheduled to run for several weeks.

The jury in the case has an unusual role: its conclusion will be advisory rather than binding. US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers will ultimately determine Meta's liability and any resulting remedies.

Why the Meta Trial Matters for Big Tech

The significance of the case extends well beyond Facebook and Instagram.

Governments around the world are increasingly examining how technology companies protect minors, verify ages and balance engagement with user safety. A ruling against Meta could encourage regulators and lawmakers to demand greater changes from other social media platforms as well.

For the technology industry, the central question is becoming increasingly important: when does a platform's effort to maximize engagement cross the line into irresponsible product design?

The Meta trial could provide one of the clearest legal tests yet of that question, and potentially influence the future of social media, youth safety and digital regulation.

Leaders Memoir Takeaway:
The case represents a broader shift in the technology industry, where user growth and engagement are increasingly being examined alongside corporate responsibility. Whatever the final outcome, the proceedings could shape how social platforms build products for younger audiences in the years ahead.