EU Mandates TikTok to Revise ‘Addictive’ App Design
The European Union has initiated a significant inquiry into TikTok, focusing on the platform’s design elements deemed “addictive.” Authorities allege that TikTok’s interface contributes to compulsive usage among minors, raising concerns about their mental health.
EU Investigates TikTok for Potential Violations
On February 7, 2026, the European Commission released preliminary findings indicating that TikTok may be breaching online content regulations. The report highlights features like infinite scrolling, autoplay, and personalized recommendations as leading factors in fostering addiction.
Key Findings from the European Commission
- Features like infinite scroll and autoplay encourage compulsive app usage.
- These design elements pose significant risks to minors’ mental health.
- The Commission asserts TikTok is in violation of the Digital Services Act.
Henna Virkkunen, the EU’s tech chief, emphasized the urgent need for TikTok to implement design changes to safeguard younger users. Spokesperson Thomas Regnier criticized TikTok’s existing measures as inadequate.
Potential Consequences for TikTok
The European Commission has warned TikTok of facing a fine of up to 6% of ByteDance’s global revenue. This potential penalty underscores the seriousness of the inquiry, which has raised alarms about the app’s influence on children.
Response from TikTok
TikTok responded firmly, labeling the Commission’s findings as “meritless” and “categorically false.” The company’s spokesperson declared their intent to contest the results of the investigation vigorously.
Broader Context of EU Regulations
This investigation aligns with the European Union’s ongoing efforts to impose stricter regulations on technology and social media firms. The initiative aims to enhance protections for young users across various platforms, as concerns about digital addiction continue to rise.
Statistics Highlighting the Issue
During the inquiry, alarming statistics emerged, particularly regarding minors’ usage patterns:
- Children aged 13 to 18 predominantly use TikTok after midnight.
- 7% of children aged 12 to 15 report spending four to five hours daily on the app.
As the investigation unfolds, TikTok’s algorithms, which uniquely cater content to user preferences, remain a focal point in discussions about social media’s impact on youth behavior.
