Meta to reshape Instagram, Facebook for young users under $18bn settlement

Meta will implement significant changes to how Instagram and Facebook operate for underage users, marking a major shift in the technology company's approach to child protection. The modifications stem from an substantial settlement requiring the social media giant to overhaul its practices around younger demographics.

The new safeguards will include automated nighttime curfews that limit when children can access the platforms, alongside daily usage caps that restrict engagement to approximately two hours. These technical constraints aim to reduce excessive screen time and protect developing sleep patterns among young users.

The settlement reflects growing regulatory and public pressure on technology platforms regarding their impact on child wellbeing. Authorities and advocacy groups have increasingly scrutinized Meta's algorithms and engagement practices, citing concerns about mental health effects, addictive design features, and inadequate safety measures.

Beyond usage restrictions, Meta's commitments are expected to include enhanced parental oversight tools and improved age verification systems. The company will also face ongoing compliance monitoring to ensure implementation of these protections across its platforms.

The changes are initially required in the United States but may signal broader shifts in how major social platforms manage child users globally as regulatory frameworks continue evolving around digital youth protection.