Trial Exposes Allegations of 'Addiction Machines' by Social Media Giants

Wed Feb 11 2026 01:47:14 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The trial against Instagram and YouTube's parent companies revolves around accusations of knowingly engineering platforms that exploit children’s psychology for profit.

A groundbreaking trial has commenced in Los Angeles, where Instagram and YouTube's parent companies, Meta and Google, face serious allegations regarding the mental health impacts of their platforms on young users. The opening arguments highlight claims that these tech giants created 'addiction machines' deliberately aimed at captivating the minds of children. The plaintiff's attorney argues that Meta and YouTube’s designs contribute directly to social media addiction and associated mental health issues, a charge both companies vehemently deny. This case not only draws attention to the specific dynamics of social media use among minors but may also set a significant precedent for liability in similar lawsuits across the United States.

Trial Exposes Allegations of 'Addiction Machines' by Social Media Giants

Lily Jamali

The world's largest social media companies have been accused of creating addiction machines as a landmark trial began in California examining the mental health effects of Instagram and YouTube.

In his opening argument before Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Carolyn B. Kuhl and a jury, attorney Mark Lanier argued that his client, plaintiff K.G.M., suffered from mental health issues as a result of her social media addiction.

These companies built machines designed to addict the brains of children, and they did it on purpose, Lanier asserted.

Lawyers for Meta and YouTube contend that K.G.M.'s addiction stems from personal issues unrelated to their platforms.

As the trial proceeds, testimonies from experts, family members affected by social media use, and high-ranking executives from the involved companies—including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg—are anticipated, potentially reshaping the conversation around social media responsibility.

The trial not only seeks to address the impact on K.G.M. but could also set legal precedents for future social media addiction lawsuits.