Meta and YouTube: A big decision has come out in America that will shake the world of social media. A California jury has convicted Meta and YouTube in an important case. These companies were accused of designing their apps in such a way that a young woman became addicted to social media and her mental health was seriously affected.
Questions raised on platform design
The jury agreed that these companies built their platforms in a way that was risky for users. Despite this, he did not give any clear warning about the possible dangers. According to the report, a 20-year-old girl, identified in the case as Kaley GM, suffered a lot due to this.
Heavy damages will have to be paid
Under this decision, the companies have been ordered to pay a total compensation of 3 million dollars (about Rs 25 crore). In this, Meta will have to pay 70% and YouTube will have to pay 30%. The girl told the court that social media had dominated her life since an early age, due to which she had to face problems related to anxiety, depression and body image.
Big blow for tech companies
This decision is being considered as a blow to those big tech companies which till now were getting protection to a great extent under a provision of American law. The jury has also indicated that additional fines may be imposed on the companies, which may further increase their problems.
Companies preparing for appeal
After the decision, both the companies have expressed disagreement with it. Meta has said that it is considering its legal options, while YouTube has made it clear that they will challenge this decision.
Full story of the case
This case started when Kaley and her mother filed a case against several social media platforms. His allegation was that these apps attracted him towards them in his childhood itself and gradually it had a negative impact on his mental condition. However, some other platforms had already reached a settlement in this case.
During the hearing it came to light that Kaley had started watching videos and using social media from a very young age. Features like notifications and likes-comments of the apps kept them coming back again and again due to which their usage continued to increase.
What could happen next?
This decision is being considered as a big turning point for the social media industry. Thousands of such cases are still pending in the courts in America. If similar decisions are taken in future also, these companies may have to suffer huge financial losses and they may have to make major changes in the design of their platforms.
Will social media apps change?
Now the question arises whether there will be any change in social media apps after this decision? Experts believe that companies can now take steps towards making their platforms more secure. This may include better controls for users, screen time limits and less attractive features.
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