tech
February 18, 2026
Zuckerberg testimony: Company consulted stakeholders about keeping beauty filters
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg took the stand in a closely watched social media and safety trial that could reshape the industry.
TL;DR
- Mark Zuckerberg testified in a social media and safety trial, discussing Instagram's beauty filters and the rationale behind their use.
- He stated that free expression was a factor in decisions regarding features like beauty filters, despite expert guidance suggesting negative effects, particularly on young girls.
- Zuckerberg denied that increasing user engagement was a company goal, characterizing internal discussions about engagement metrics as aspirations rather than objectives.
- The trial also touched upon Meta's policies and practices regarding underage users, with evidence suggesting a significant number of children under 13 used the platform.
- The case is being compared to the "Big Tobacco" moment for the social media industry, with allegations of misleading the public about product safety and causing mental health harm.
- Snap and TikTok have settled with the plaintiff, while Meta denies the allegations.
- A judge threatened contempt of court for anyone using AI smart glasses during Zuckerberg's testimony, with members of his team seen wearing them.
- Zuckerberg also addressed his ability to remain CEO due to his voting power, stating he is "very bad" at media.
- Meta faces other lawsuits concerning child safety and alleged flaws in apps that foster detrimental mental health issues in young users.
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