Stunning twist in Google and Meta trial as judge steps in
New York Post • • business
Key Points:
- Jurors in a high-profile social media addiction trial against Google and Meta are struggling to reach a unanimous verdict, risking a mistrial and a potential retrial with a new jury.
- The case centers on a 20-year-old woman, identified as KGM, who claims she became addicted to YouTube and Instagram as a child, leading to severe mental health issues including anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia.
- Emotional testimony from the plaintiff highlighted the damaging effects of social media on her self-worth, while Meta denies Instagram was a substantial factor in her struggles, emphasizing pre-existing challenges.
- TikTok and Snapchat, initially part of the lawsuit, settled confidentially with the plaintiff just before the trial began.
- The trial's outcome could influence thousands of similar lawsuits nationwide, with Judge Carolyn B. Kuhl urging jurors to reach a decision to avoid restarting the lengthy legal process.
