TikTok has agreed to a settlement in a high-stakes legal battle concerning social media dependency, just escaping a trial where jury selection was set to start on Tuesday. The New York Times reported the agreement, but details of the terms remain confidential.
This resolution by TikTok follows closely on the heels of Snap's settlement in the identical lawsuit about a week earlier. Proceedings will continue in Los Angeles, now solely involving Meta and YouTube as remaining parties. Mark Lanier, representing the plaintiff, expressed satisfaction to the NYT, calling it 'a positive outcome.' TikTok has not yet replied to inquiries for comment.
The case originated from a 2023 legal action filed by a California resident identified as 'K.G.M.' in filings. She accused Meta, Snap, TikTok, and YouTube of designing addictive features that damaged her during childhood. Earlier, the presiding judge mandated testimony from company leaders, such as Mark Zuckerberg and Adam Mosseri. Neal Mohan, YouTube's chief executive, is also anticipated to appear on the stand, per The New York Times.
This suit marks the initial major action against social media firms to reach courtroom proceedings this year. Meta faces an upcoming hearing in New Mexico come early February, initiated by the state's top prosecutor, claiming that Facebook and Instagram contribute to youth injuries. Meanwhile, TikTok and Snap confront over a dozen additional courtroom battles in California throughout the year.