EU Commission Calls for End to Infinite Scrolling on Instagram

The EU Commission officially called on Meta on July 11, 2026, to abolish infinite scrolling on Instagram. This measure aims to reduce unhealthy usage of social media platforms, particularly among teenagers. Brussels accuses the US company of deliberately promoting behaviors that violate European law. The EU Commission's criticism is based on the assumption that Instagram's design, especially infinite scrolling, leads to excessive usage.

Studies have shown that teenagers often spend several hours daily on their feeds, which can have negative effects on their mental health. The Commission sees this as a violation of guidelines for the protection of minors. Meta has already responded to the allegations, emphasizing that the company is continuously working to improve user experience. A spokesperson stated that the platform has implemented features designed to help users manage their screen time. Nevertheless, the EU Commission remains skeptical and calls for more comprehensive measures.

The discussion about infinite scrolling is part of a larger trend in the EU addressing the regulation of social media and digital platforms. In 2024, the Digital Services Act (DSA) came into force, introducing strict regulations for online platforms. The EU Commission sees the need to tighten these regulations further to ensure the protection of users, especially minors. The demand for an end to infinite scrolling could have far-reaching consequences for how Instagram operates. Experts warn that such a change could significantly influence user behavior.

Some analysts fear that this could lead to a decline in user numbers, while others argue that healthier usage could be beneficial for the platform in the long run. The EU Commission plans to hold further discussions with Meta in the coming months to discuss specific measures. A timeline for the implementation of the requested changes has not yet been announced. However, the Commission has emphasized its determination to protect user interests and strengthen platform accountability. The debate over infinite scrolling is not limited to Instagram.

Other platforms like TikTok and Facebook are also under scrutiny. The EU Commission has announced that it will consider similar measures against these companies to ensure they comply with guidelines for the protection of minors. Reactions from the affected companies are expected in the coming weeks. The discussion about social media regulation is part of a broader societal discourse on the impact of digital technologies on the lives of young people. Experts are calling for greater awareness of the risks associated with excessive social media usage.

The EU Commission has already launched initiatives to raise awareness of these issues. In the past, the Commission has taken action against other companies that violated user protection guidelines. In 2025, a fine of 1.2 billion euros was imposed on another major tech company for violating data protection regulations. This history could strengthen the Commission's negotiating position against Meta. The coming months will be crucial to observe how Meta responds to the EU Commission's demands. The platform is under pressure to reconsider its policies and possibly make fundamental changes to its design. The EU Commission has announced that it will closely monitor developments and take further action if necessary.