TikTok's infinite scroll is too addictive, say EU regulators

"EU regulators have declared that TikTok's "addictive design" may put it in breach of the Digital Services Act (DSA), in the preliminary results of an ongoing investigation into the social media app. If those findings are confirmed, TikTok could face a major fine and be required to "change the basic design of its service" in order to comply with the law."

"For example, by constantly 'rewarding' users with new content, certain design features of TikTok fuel the urge to keep scrolling and shift the brain of users into 'autopilot mode', the Commission says in a press release. "Scientific research shows that this may lead to compulsive behaviour and reduce users' self-control." The Commission suggests that TikTok's existing parental controls and screen-time features are insufficient, and that TikTok may need to make them more effective, along with limiting infinite scroll and adapting its recommendation algorithm."

EU regulators' preliminary investigation finds TikTok's design features—such as infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications, and a highly personalised recommender—may be addictive and could breach the Digital Services Act. The Commission states these features can reward users with new content, fuel compulsive scrolling, shift users into 'autopilot mode,' and reduce self-control, citing scientific research. Regulators regard existing parental controls and screen-time tools as insufficient and propose stronger safeguards, limits on infinite scroll, and algorithm adjustments. TikTok can respond before final conclusions; confirmed violations could trigger fines up to 6 percent of worldwide annual turnover.

Read at The Verge