Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri Denies Addiction Claims in High-Stakes Trial
Los Angeles, CA – February 13, 2026 – Adam Mosseri, CEO of Instagram, faced intense questioning in a California courtroom today, firmly denying accusations that the social media platform is designed to be addictive, especially for young users. The trial, unfolding in Los Angeles County Superior Court, represents a potentially landmark case that could reshape the legal landscape for social media companies.
Social Media Addiction Lawsuit Heats Up
The lawsuit was brought by 20-year-old “KGM” (Kaley), who alleges that Instagram addiction contributed to her mental health struggles and physical disabilities. Kaley’s attorney, Mark Lanier – known for his success in the Johnson & Johnson baby powder litigation – is leading the charge against Meta (Facebook and Instagram) and Google (YouTube). TikTok and Snap have already reached settlement agreements in the case.
Mosseri Defends Instagram’s Business Model
Mosseri testified that Instagram does not intentionally target teenagers to maximize profits, stating that this demographic generates less revenue due to limited disposable income. He argued that protecting minors is ultimately beneficial for the company’s long-term success. “It’s hard to imagine a case where prioritizing safety wouldn’t help the bottom line,” Mosseri stated during questioning.
The Long-Term Customer Argument
Lanier countered Mosseri’s claims by presenting research suggesting that users who begin using social media at a young age are more likely to remain active on the platform for extended periods. This, Lanier argued, makes teenage users valuable “long-term customers” who contribute significantly to a platform’s profitability.
“Problematic Use” vs. “Clinical Addiction”
When pressed about previous statements acknowledging Instagram’s potentially addictive qualities, Mosseri clarified that he may have used the term “addictive” casually. He further distinguished between “clinical addiction” – requiring medical treatment – and “problematic use,” acknowledging that some users may spend more time on the platform than they are comfortable with. He emphasized he is not a medical expert.
Beauty Filters and the Pursuit of Safety
Mosseri too addressed concerns about Instagram’s “Beauty Filter” function, which alters users’ appearances. He stated that the company is striving to balance safety with minimizing censorship.
A Pivotal Moment for Social Media Accountability
This trial is widely considered a bellwether case, with the potential to influence thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is scheduled to testify next week, and YouTube CEO Neil Mohan has also been summoned as a witness. The outcome of this case could significantly alter how social media platforms are designed and regulated, impacting millions of users worldwide. The case highlights the growing scrutiny of social media’s impact on mental health and the responsibilities of tech companies to protect their users, particularly young people.
As the trial progresses, archyde.com will continue to provide up-to-the-minute coverage and in-depth analysis of this crucial case, offering insights into the evolving relationship between social media, technology, and well-being. Stay tuned for further updates and expert commentary as this story develops.
