Zuckerberg Testifies in Social Media Addiction Trial in Los Angeles
Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg took the witness stand in a major trial in Los Angeles that could change how social media platforms are regulated. The case is being treated by legal experts as a bellwether for future litigation and possible regulation of tech engagement practices.
Zuckerberg faced intense questioning as part of the first of more than 1,600 similar lawsuits. Plaintiffs argue that internal strategies to increase user engagement amounted to efforts to create addictive experiences for users, particularly young people.
In his testimony, Zuckerberg defended Meta’s strategy. He said that the company’s growth targets were focused on providing “useful” services and not on addicting users. When asked about internal emails referring to boosting engagement, Zuckerberg described those communications as “aspirational” and not instructions to exploit children.
The trial drew widespread attention not only for its implications for the tech industry but also for an unusual courtroom moment. The judge warned members of the courtroom including representatives from Meta against wearing Meta Ray-Ban AI glasses during testimony. The judge made it clear that anyone caught recording could face contempt of court in order to protect the integrity of the proceedings.
Legal analysts say the outcome could have far-reaching effects. If the jury finds Meta liable for designing addiction into its products, plaintiffs in related cases could pursue billions of dollars in damages. A verdict for the plaintiffs could change how technology companies design their platforms and how regulators in the United States and abroad approach digital user engagement.
Meta did not provide an immediate comment beyond Zuckerberg’s testimony. Advocates who support stronger regulation celebrated the trial as a long overdue step toward accountability in Silicon Valley. The proceedings are set to continue in the coming weeks as both sides present expert witnesses and evidence.
