The first bellwether trial against social media companies for addictive product design and other allegations will potentially upend traditional principles on product liability, design of digital products and corporate responsibility. The trial is part of US multi-district litigation brought on behalf of children and scheduled to take place in late 2025. The action alleges intentional creation of products with addictive engagement, driving compulsive use and algorithmic manipulation, resulting in various physical and emotional harms, including death. European regulators, rather than litigators, are challenging social media platforms with the European Commission opening formal proceedings under the Digital Services Act. While we do not expect civil claims to necessarily follow in Europe, the impact of the Representative Actions Directive may alter perceptions on pursuing these types of claims.