tech

What’s about to change on Facebook and Instagram: six key takeaways from the end of the Meta trial

Settlement agreement says Meta must make many safety and wellness features the default option for young users

What’s about to change on Facebook and Instagram: six key takeaways from the end of the Meta trial

TL;DR

  • Meta will make many safety limitations the default setting for new teen accounts on Instagram and Facebook, shifting from an opt-in model.
  • The settlement requires Meta to pay up to $17 billion to states that filed suit.
  • Parental supervision features will allow adults to monitor and adjust teen account settings, including time spent and messaging contacts.
  • Default time limits, 'night mode,' and 'school mode' will restrict app usage for teen accounts.
  • Features like like counts will be disabled by default for teenagers, and cosmetic filters will be banned.
  • Meta must use age verification systems, such as identification or facial recognition, to ensure teens are not using regular accounts.