Brands
Google, Meta and TikTok sue California over teen feeds law
The law limits autoplay and personalised feeds for users under 16. The companies say it breaks free-speech rules.
In short
<16age group the law protects
- Applies to users under 16
- Starts 1 Jan 2027 unless blocked
- Signed by Newsom in September
What happened
Google, Meta and TikTok filed a lawsuit to block California's Assembly Bill 1709. The law restricts features like autoplay and personalised recommendations for users under 16. Governor Gavin Newsom signed it in September, and it is due to start on 1 January 2027.
The companies argue it violates free speech. California's Attorney General says the state will defend it.
Why it matters
Endless scroll and autoplay are exactly what keep people on apps — and what critics say make them addictive for teenagers. Rules in big markets like California often end up shaping how apps work everywhere, so the case is being watched far beyond the US.
