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Instagram Adds Teen Safety Alerts

Instagram will begin notifying parents when teenagers repeatedly search for content related to self-harm or suicide within a short timeframe.

The feature will be available through the platform’s optional supervision settings, allowing guardians to receive alerts about concerning search patterns.

The update comes as several governments consider stricter measures to protect young users online, including potential restrictions on access to social media for minors.

The platform said the alerts build on existing safeguards that block harmful searches and redirect users to support resources.

The move reflects growing global pressure on digital platforms to strengthen safety mechanisms for younger audiences.

Zuckerberg Defends Instagram Policies in Court

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg testified in a Los Angeles trial, denying claims that Instagram intentionally targets children under 13.

The case centers on allegations that social media platforms harmed a user’s mental health during childhood. Lawyers presented internal company documents suggesting discussions around engaging younger audiences, while Zuckerberg maintained that Meta does not permit users below the minimum age requirement.

He acknowledged past internal conversations about creating safer versions of services for younger users but stated such plans were never implemented.

The lawsuit forms part of a broader wave of legal challenges facing major technology companies over their impact on young users’ wellbeing.

Meta has argued that its platforms include safety measures and that verifying user age remains a broader industry challenge.

The trial could influence future legal debates around platform responsibility and digital product design.

Meta Revives Smartwatch Project for 2026 Launch

Meta Platforms is reportedly restarting its smartwatch initiative as part of its expanding wearable technology strategy. The revived project, known internally as Malibu 2, is expected to introduce a device focused on health monitoring and integrated artificial intelligence capabilities.

The smartwatch is anticipated to include fitness tracking features alongside a built-in Meta AI assistant. This marks a renewed push into wearables after the company previously halted development in 2022 amid broader cost-cutting measures within its Reality Labs division.

The move reflects growing industry interest in AI-powered personal devices, particularly in health and lifestyle applications. Wearable technology is increasingly being positioned as a key interface for artificial intelligence in everyday use.

Meta has already seen strong market traction in smart eyewear through its collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, the parent company of Ray-Ban. Shipments of AI-enabled glasses reached nearly 6 million units last year, highlighting rising consumer demand for intelligent wearables.

Beyond smartwatches, Meta continues to work on multiple augmented and mixed-reality devices. However, the company is reportedly reassessing release timelines to avoid overwhelming consumers with too many new products in a short period.

Earlier internal discussions also indicated delays in certain mixed-reality projects, with some developments now expected closer to 2027.