Meta is putting hard limits on Facebook and Instagram after $17 billion settlement

Meta is set to impose strict limits on Facebook and Instagram for younger users following a $17.1 billion settlement over claims that the platforms were designed to be addictive for teens. The agreement, which settles claims from 47 states and territories, avoids a major trial and forces Meta to implement changes that could immediately impact teen usage.

The most significant change is the introduction of daily usage limits, with a two-hour cap for minors. Access will be restricted overnight, and push notifications will be limited during school hours and late at night unless parents override the settings. Meta will also enhance age assurance to prevent children from accessing adult content by simply entering a false birthday.

Additionally, the company will strengthen age assurance to prevent underage users from accessing adult content. Content controls will become tighter, with restrictions on bullying, eating-disorder content, and suicide/self-harm material. Certain beauty filters and social-comparison features may also be restricted, and visible like counts could become less prominent for younger users.

Parents will receive stronger and easier-to-use supervision tools. While the settlement carries implications for the entire industry, the changes are expected to make a significant difference for teens and their parents by reducing late-night interruptions, providing clearer stopping points, and offering safer default settings.