Algorithms

Australia is proposing the “My Feed, My Way” legislation to give users aged 16 and over the choice to disable algorithm-driven content feeds on social media, opting instead for chronological feeds. This move aims to return user agency and hold tech companies accountable, following global trends in regulating Big Tech’s influence. Penalties for non-compliance are significant, and the laws also extend to safeguarding minors from addictive design features.

California is hosting a pivotal federal trial where 29 states are suing Meta, alleging it cultivates addictive behavior in young users. This case, likened to social media’s “Big Tobacco” moment, could force fundamental changes to Meta’s algorithms and business practices, potentially reshaping the future of social media and digital advertising. A negative verdict in California could have astronomical, market-shifting financial and operational repercussions for Meta.