Meta is likely to be forced to redesign Instagram and Facebook after a preliminary investigation found the company in breach of the EU’s Digital Services Act due to the “addictive” design of its apps. The European Commission’s findings suggest that Meta may have to disable features like autoplay and infinite scroll by default.
The investigation criticized Meta’s design features, such as personalized recommendations and infinite scroll, which “fuel the user’s urge to keep scrolling and shift the brain into ‘autopilot mode.'” These features are seen as contributing to the addictive nature of the apps.
The report also expressed concerns over the tools Meta provides to help limit users’ use, stating that time management tools can be easily dismissed and parental controls require technical expertise to be effective. Meta’s mental health awareness measures were also deemed too limited to mitigate the risks.
According to the Commission, Meta “did not adequately assess the risks of its addictive design on the physical and mental wellbeing of users, including minors and vulnerable adults.” This lack of assessment may lead to significant consequences for the company.
They may face a fine of up to $12 billion if the Commission’s decision is made final. The company will have the chance to defend itself, but if found noncompliant, it could be forced to pay up to 6 percent of its worldwide annual turnover. In 2025, this amount was $200.97 billion.
The European Commission’s investigation began in May 2024 and is also assessing Meta’s age verification tools and content protections for minors. A separate report from the Commission is due next Monday, considering a blocwide ban on social media for under-16s.
In the US, Meta faces a trial in August over whether its apps are intentionally addictive, with four states reportedly pushing for combined penalties of up to $1.4 trillion. The company’s design choices are under scrutiny on both sides of the Atlantic.
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Henna Virkkunen, the Commission’s tech policy chief, said “Protecting the physical and mental health of Europeans must be a priority for social media platforms.” The Digital Services Act provides a framework to hold platforms accountable for the addictive design and effects of their services.
The EU’s regulatory environment is becoming increasingly strict, with a focus on protecting users’ wellbeing. As the Commission enforces its legislation, social media companies like Meta will need to adapt their designs to prioritize user health.
For instance, the Commission suggests implementing effective screentime breaks and making the recommendation algorithm “less engagement-oriented.” These changes could significantly impact the user experience on Instagram and Facebook.
Meta’s situation highlights the need for social media companies to consider the potential risks of their designs. By prioritizing user engagement, companies may inadvertently contribute to addictive behaviors, which can have serious consequences for users’ physical and mental health.
It is a significant step towards regulating social media companies and protecting users’ wellbeing. As the regulatory environment continues to evolve, companies like Meta will need to be proactive in addressing concerns around addictive design.
They will need to make changes.
