This archive report was first published on 27 September 2021.
Facebook has faced intense backlash over its plans to develop an Instagram app for kids under 13, following a report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) that the platform is toxic for teenagers. The social media giant announced on September 27, 2021, that it has paused the development of the app, citing the need to work with parents, experts, policymakers, and regulators to address concerns.
According to a blog post by Instagram, the company had planned to develop an app for kids aged 10-12, which would require parental permission to join, have no ads, and feature age-appropriate content and features. However, the company has now decided to pause the project to ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page.
Facebook's decision to pause the app development comes after the WSJ published a report detailing the company's internal research on the effects of Instagram on teenagers. The report found that Instagram can be toxic for teenagers, with many experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Instagram's head of safety is expected to appear before a US Senate committee to answer more questions about the report and the company's plans for the app. The company has not provided a timeline for when the project will resume or when the app will be rolled out.
