Meta’s $17bn settlement: The end of social media as we know it? episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 27, 2026 · 24 MIN

Meta’s $17bn settlement: The end of social media as we know it?

from The Times Tech Podcast

Meta has settled a landmark social media case in California for up to $17 billion. But the changes to Facebook and Instagram could be even more significant than the fine. Danny and Katie break down what the settlement means for under-18s – from tighter parental controls, time limits, overnight restrictions, bans on extreme cosmetic/makeup filters and changes to likes and reactions. Could this become a turning point for social media regulation? Meanwhile in China, 2,000 robots have been competing in the World Humanoid Robot Games, with events ranging from tug-of-war to cheerleading. As the robots get faster, cheaper and more capable, we ask: is robotics having a “chatGPT moment”? Plus, OpenAI has developed its own AI chip to rival Nvidia, even as it remains one of Nvidia’s major customers. Could this be a serious challenge to Jensen Huang's chip empire?Watch on YouTube Get in touch: [email protected]  Presenters: Katie Prescott, Technology Business Editor, The Times Danny Fortson, US West Coast Correspondent, The Sunday Times Producer: Marnie Duke Executive Producer: Priyanka DeladiaVideo Producer: Bronwen LathamImage: Getty Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Aug 27, 2026

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Meta’s $17bn settlement: The end of social media as we know it?

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