Meta trial that could reshape Facebook and Instagram gets underway in California

A lawsuit involving Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has commenced in California federal court, alleging that the social media giants' designs have harmed young users' mental health. The four lead states leading the case, California, Colorado, Kentucky, and New Jersey, contend that Meta intentionally engineered its platforms to addict users and harvest their data, misleading consumers about the safety of the apps.

The trial, which could reshape the way Meta operates, is expected to last six weeks. The attorneys-general involved have called for changes, such as age restrictions and the elimination of the infinite scroll, to safeguard young users. If found liable, Meta could face penalties of up to $1.4 trillion, nearly equal to the company's market value.