Zuckerberg says he went to Tim Cook to discuss ‘wellbeing of teens and kids’ – 9to5Mac
In a high-profile courtroom moment that many are calling the tech industry’s “Big Tobacco” phase, Mark Zuckerberg revealed that he once consulted Tim Cook about protecting teenagers on social media.
The disclosure came during a closely watched trial in Los Angeles Superior Court, where Meta Platforms Inc. is facing scrutiny over teen safety concerns on Instagram.
Let’s break down what happened, why it matters, and how it could shape the future of social media regulation.
What Did Mark Zuckerberg Reveal in Court?
During testimony, Zuckerberg confirmed that he exchanged emails with Cook back in February 2018. The discussion focused on potential safety measures both Meta and Apple Inc. could explore to better protect young users online.
Why is this important?
This revelation appears to be part of Meta’s broader legal strategy. By showing he consulted a major industry rival, Zuckerberg is positioning himself as proactive about teen safety — not reactive.
For regulators and parents alike, this detail could influence how responsibility is assessed in the ongoing legal battle.
What Is the Lawsuit About?
The case centers on a 17-year-old plaintiff, referred to as “K.G.M.,” who alleges that Instagram’s design features — such as infinite scrolling — contributed to mental health harm.
The lawsuit raises serious questions:
- Are social media platforms intentionally addictive?
- Do beauty filters harm teenage self-esteem?
- Should tech companies face stricter regulations?
This is why some observers are comparing the case to the tobacco industry’s reckoning decades ago.
Beauty Filters vs. Free Expression
One of the most debated moments in the trial involved Instagram’s beauty filters.
Zuckerberg acknowledged concerns — including a study from the University of Chicago warning about negative impacts on teenage girls. However, he defended Meta’s decision to prioritize “free expression.”
Meta had temporarily restricted cosmetic surgery filters but later lifted the ban, choosing not to promote them actively.
The balancing act here is clear:
- Protect teen mental health
vs. - Preserve creative freedom and self-expression
And that tension is now at the heart of the case.
Courtroom Drama: AI Glasses Warning
The trial took an unexpected turn when Judge Carolyn B. Kuhl warned she would hold anyone in contempt for recording testimony using AI smart glasses.
Members of Zuckerberg’s team were reportedly seen wearing Meta Ray-Ban AI glasses, despite courtroom recording bans. The judge ordered any recordings deleted immediately.
This moment underscores how fast AI-powered wearable technology is evolving — and how courts are scrambling to keep up.
Is Instagram “Addictive”?
Earlier testimony from Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, added nuance to the debate.
Mosseri admitted there can be “problematic usage” of social media but stopped short of labeling it clinical addiction. He argued that people often use the word “addicted” casually — similar to binge-watching shows on Netflix.
This distinction may prove crucial legally. Calling something addictive carries very different implications than saying it’s habit-forming or highly engaging.
Global Crackdown on Teen Social Media Use
The trial comes amid rising global scrutiny.
Several countries are considering or implementing restrictions:
- France
- United Kingdom
- Malaysia
- South Korea
- Czech Republic
Most notably, Australia became the first country to ban children under 16 from major social platforms, forcing companies to block millions of users.
The message from governments is clear: teen mental health is now a policy priority.
Why This Trial Could Change Social Media Forever
This case isn’t just about one teenager or one platform. It raises foundational questions about:
- Platform design ethics
- Algorithmic responsibility
- Corporate accountability
- Free speech vs. protection
If courts decide platforms knowingly created harmful engagement systems, it could reshape how apps are designed worldwide.
On the other hand, a ruling in favor of Meta may reinforce the argument that user choice — not platform design — is the determining factor.
Expert Perspective: What Happens Next?
From a digital policy standpoint, this trial could:
- Accelerate age-verification laws
- Force design transparency
- Trigger stronger parental controls
- Increase algorithm audits
For investors, it also raises important questions about regulatory risk facing big tech companies like Meta and Apple.
Final Takeaway
Mark Zuckerberg’s admission that he consulted Tim Cook on teen safety shows that even competitors recognize the seriousness of the issue.
But the court must now decide:
Is social media inherently harmful to teens, or is it a tool whose impact depends on how it’s used?
The outcome could define the next decade of digital regulation.
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