Meta's New Social Media Guidelines for Teen Users
Time limits and new protection measures are rolling out for teens on Instagram and Facebook.
1Changes Following an $18 Billion Lawsuit
Meta announced new measures for teen users on Instagram and Facebook to resolve an $18 billion lawsuit. The lawsuit alleged that the platforms contributed to social media addiction among teens. While Meta did not admit wrongdoing, it will implement changes like a default 2-hour daily time limit and night mode. These measures can be adjusted by parents.
2Time Limits and Night Mode
Meta is introducing a default 2-hour daily social media limit for users under 18. Parents can extend this limit. Additionally, night mode will restrict content access between midnight and 6 a.m. School mode will mute notifications from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. These measures aim to reduce distractions during school hours.
3Usage Duration Warnings
Meta is adding new features to warn teen users about prolonged usage. Alerts will be sent after 15, 60, and 90 minutes of app usage. Also, video autoplay will be turned off by default. These measures aim to help teens manage their social media time more consciously.
4Likes and Content Restrictions
Meta is also limiting the content teens can see. By default, teens won't see likes or reactions on posts. Certain content, like cosmetic surgery and 'extreme makeup' filters, will be blocked. However, the extent of these restrictions remains unclear. For example, it's unknown whether a dog ears filter will be blocked.
5Age-Appropriate Content Filtering
Meta is developing age-appropriate content filters, but details are vague. Filters will use movie ratings and parent feedback, but it's unclear how they'll apply to social media posts. Teens will have the option to choose a non-algorithmic, non-personalized feed.
6Age Verification Strategy
Meta will implement a new age verification strategy on Instagram and Facebook. Stronger technology will detect accounts under 13, and existing systems will be enhanced to identify 13-17-year-olds. However, how this technology works or whether there's an appeals process for mislabeled accounts remains unclear. AI-based scanning is likely to be used.
7Global Social Media Restrictions
Meta's move is part of growing global social media restrictions. The EU limits access for under-13s, while Australia banned apps like Instagram for under-16s. However, some experts argue Meta's measures are insufficient and call for changes to platform architecture. AI Now co-director Amba Kak states the 'surveillance advertising' model is the root issue.
8Independent Research Foundation and Next Steps
As part of the agreement, Meta will establish an independent social media research foundation to share 'consented' user data to support teen well-being. Meta has called on TikTok and YouTube to adopt similar measures, but no response has been received yet. The first changes will roll out in the coming months, but the full timeline remains unclear.
Original article: CNET — Meta'nın Genç Kullanıcılar İçin Getirdiği Yeni Sosyal Medya Kuralları