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The European Commission has ordered Meta to remove the “addictive” design elements from its Facebook and Instagram platforms, citing features such as infinite scroll as hazardous. The regulator warned that failure to comply could result in substantial fines, making the current design illegal under EU rules.
Meta has introduced an “AI Mode” for Facebook that functions as a search tool powered by Meta AI. The feature generates answers by pulling content from public posts across the platform, including users’ Group posts and Reels, rather than relying on external sources. It is designed to surface information directly from Facebook’s own ecosystem.
Meta is rolling out expanded safety settings for users aged 13 and older across Instagram, Facebook and Messenger, applying new limits on the types of posts teens can repeatedly see. The changes aim to curb harmful content, including topics such as nutrition, weight-lifting and anxiety, and are being implemented globally.
Meta has introduced paid “Plus” subscription tiers for Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp worldwide, offering multiple price levels that include a $7.99-per-month option, a $19.99-per-month option and a higher-priced creator plan. The rollout also includes forthcoming Meta AI features and a $49.99-per-month plan aimed at creators, mirroring similar premium offerings seen on competing platforms.
Meta has quietly launched a new standalone app called Forum that functions like Reddit for Facebook Groups, displaying a feed of group conversations. The iOS-only app includes an AI-powered “Ask” feature that lets users pose questions to the platform. It blends elements of Reddit, Facebook and Google AI in its design.
Meta faces a lawsuit filed by the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America, which alleges the company misled users about its efforts to combat scam advertisements on its Facebook and Instagram platforms. The complaint claims Meta has been deceptive regarding the prevalence of fraudulent ads, and it notes that the company previously projected roughly $16 billion in revenue from such scam ads, prompting a growing number of legal actions.
A former Meta employee is under investigation for downloading 30,000 private Facebook photos. The incident has raised concerns about data privacy. Meta is reviewing its security measures.
Indonesia will prohibit children under 16 from accessing a list of “high-risk” platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X and Roblox. The ban is set to take effect on March 28, restricting under-16 users from using these social-media services nationwide.