The European Commission has reached a preliminary conclusion regarding TikTok's non-compliance with EU digital legislation – due to its "addictive design," the European Commission's press service reported.
The European Commission's investigation has preliminarily concluded that several design features of the TikTok app contribute to addiction and thus represent a violation of EU digital legislation.
These include, in particular, the ability to continuously scroll through content, automatic video playback, push notifications, and a personalized recommendation system.
"The investigation preliminarily indicates that TikTok did not conduct an adequate assessment of how these 'enticing' features may harm the physical and psychological health of users, particularly minors and vulnerable adults... By constantly 'rewarding' users with new content, TikTok's design features push them to continue viewing and switch the brain into 'autopilot mode,'" the statement notes.
It was also determined that TikTok developers did not implement safeguards against compulsive use of the app – indicators that would show how much time minors spend there late at night, how often users open the app, etc.
After the publication of this conclusion, TikTok may, after reviewing it, present counterarguments and provide a written response. Meanwhile, European Commission specialists will consult with the European Council on Digital Services.
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