Pivotal Meta trial over social media addiction in children gets underway

US states have begun presenting their case against Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, in a California court in a trial over social media addiction in children. The proceedings open a high‑stakes legal challenge that could force changes to two of the world’s most widely used apps. Plaintiffs in the case are US states suing Meta; the litigation centres on allegations linked to young people’s use of social media. The trial, taking place in California, is being watched because its outcome could reshape features, policies and practices across Facebook and Instagram. The court process marks a prominent step in government action targeting the tech sector’s impact on children.