Jurors in a landmark social media trial remain deadlocked, struggling to reach a consensus on claims against Meta and YouTube. The panel informed Judge Carolyn Kuhl that they were having difficulty agreeing on one of the defendants, prompting her to urge them to continue deliberations. “If you are unable to reach a verdict, the case will have to be retried with a new jury, adding extra costs for everyone,” Kuhl warned.
The trial, seen as a bellwether for hundreds of similar lawsuits across the United States, centers on allegations that social media platforms deliberately design their apps to be addictive, contributing to mental health issues among young users. The lawsuit claims these platforms failed to warn users about the potential for depression, eating disorders, psychiatric hospitalization, and even suicidal thoughts.
The jury’s first week of full deliberations ended with a question on calculating damages, suggesting some agreement that one or both tech giants could be responsible for harm. The case revolves around whether apps like Instagram and YouTube, rather than personal or familial challenges, were a substantial factor in the mental health struggles of the plaintiff, a 20-year-old California woman named Kaley G.M. She testified that her obsession with social media began at age six and fueled depression and suicidal thoughts, though under cross-examination she also spoke of neglect and bullying within her family.
Jurors must determine if Meta or YouTube should have known their platforms posed risks to children and if negligence in design played a role. If they agree, they will then decide how much the companies should pay in damages. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases nationwide, potentially reshaping how social media companies are held accountable for the mental well-being of their users.
Plaintiff’s attorney Mark Lanier noted the uncertainty in the room. “We’re reading tea leaves and we don’t know what they mean,” he said, stressing that a mistrial does not yet appear imminent. The jury is scheduled to resume deliberations Tuesday, continuing their search for consensus on one of the most closely watched tech cases in recent memory.
