Commission preliminary findings: Meta Instagram/Facebook addictive design

On 10 July 2026 the European Commission preliminarily found Meta in breach of the DSA for the addictive design of Instagram and Facebook (IP/26/1579).

Features named

The investigation focuses on infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications, and highly personalised recommender systems. The Commission states Meta did not adequately assess risks to physical and mental wellbeing of users, including minors and vulnerable adults, and that current mitigation (for example dismissible time tools and safety-centre tips) failed to tackle those risks effectively.

At this stage the Commission considers Meta needs design changes — for instance disabling autoplay and infinite scroll by default, implementing effective screen-time breaks, and adapting recommenders to be less engagement-oriented. Preliminary findings do not prejudge the final outcome; Meta can reply. No fine is recorded as imposed on these pages.

Operator action

Do not invent CPI or reach deltas from a preliminary finding.

Download the change-log card.

Research checked 20 September 2026. Local draft; human editorial review pending.