Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-02-19 02:56Core Viewpoint - Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified in a landmark trial regarding social media and safety issues, emphasizing his concern for the welfare of young users on Instagram and his proactive approach in discussing these issues with Apple CEO Tim Cook [1][9]. Group 1: Communication with Apple - Zuckerberg reached out to Tim Cook in February 2018 to discuss the welfare of teenagers and children, suggesting a potential collaboration between Meta and Apple [1][8]. - The defense presented emails showing Zuckerberg's proactive communication with young Instagram users, countering claims that he was not concerned about their safety [1][8]. Group 2: Filters and User Safety - The trial focused on the impact of digital filters, particularly beauty filters, which have been accused of promoting cosmetic surgery among young users [1][9]. - Zuckerberg acknowledged that the company consulted various stakeholders regarding the use of beauty filters but did not specify who they were [2][9]. - He defended the decision to lift a temporary ban on cosmetic filters, citing freedom of expression, despite acknowledging expert concerns about their negative impact on young girls [3][10]. Group 3: Internal Disagreements and Evidence - Internal disagreements were noted, with some Meta employees expressing concerns about the decision to allow beauty filters, including a vice president who felt it was not the right choice given the risks [4][10]. - Zuckerberg stated that there was insufficient causal evidence to support claims of harm from external experts, despite acknowledging the feedback received [4][10]. Group 4: User Engagement and Company Goals - Zuckerberg denied that increasing user time on Instagram was a company goal, clarifying that discussions about user engagement metrics were part of the company's vision rather than explicit targets [5][12]. - Evidence was presented indicating plans to increase daily active user time to 40 minutes in 2023 and 46 minutes by 2026, which Zuckerberg framed as milestones for competitive comparison [6][12]. Group 5: Age Verification and User Removal - Concerns were raised about the effectiveness of age verification on Instagram, with reports indicating that 4 million children under the age of 13 were using the platform [13]. - Zuckerberg stated that the company would remove identified underage users and emphasized the importance of age restrictions during the registration process [13][14]. - The defense questioned the practicality of expecting young children to understand the terms of service, highlighting the challenges of enforcing age restrictions [7][13].