JAKARTA - The major trial that brought together technology giants Google and Meta with accusations of triggering social media addiction has entered a crucial phase. This happened, after the jury stated that it was difficult to reach a unanimous decision.
In a hearing held in Los Angeles, the jury on Monday, March 23 local time, admitted that they were at a loss in deciding the verdict against one of the defendants. However, they did not reveal specifically whether the impasse was related to Google or Meta.
Judge Carolyn B. Kuhl responded by asking the jury to continue to try to reach a verdict if possible. He emphasized that if the impasse continued, the trial would have to be repeated with a new jury panel. It is a scenario that has the potential to prolong this high-profile legal battle.
This case itself has entered the deliberation phase for more than a week. The lawsuit was filed by a young woman who claims to have been addicted since childhood due to the use of Google's YouTube platform and Meta's Instagram.
This is not just about one individual. The final ruling has the potential to become an important precedent for thousands of similar lawsuits that are now beginning to emerge in various regions of the United States. Parents, attorneys general, and school districts are said to be monitoring the case as a reference for their next legal steps.
If the jury fails to reach a consensus, not only will the trial be repeated - but it also opens the door to a new wave of lawsuits that could further pressure the global technology industry.
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