SNAP SETTLES ADDICTION LAWSUIT BEFORE TRIAL

The settlement marks the second major case to reach agreement before trial. Snap's deal comes as Meta prepares for jury selection in a similar lawsuit alleging social media platforms deliberately design features to hook young users. Both cases stem from a wave of litigation filed by state attorneys general and families arguing that platforms prioritize engagement and profits over user safety and mental health. The lawsuits target features like infinite scrolling and algorithmic feeds that critics say fuel dependency, particularly among teenagers. Meta has declined settlement offers in previous cases and indicated it plans to defend its practices in court. The Los Angeles trial represents a significant moment for the tech industry as courts examine whether platforms bear responsibility for addiction-like behavior in minors. Terms of Snap's settlement have not been disclosed. The outcome of Meta's jury trial could influence how future addiction cases against tech companies proceed.