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EU regulators have warned that TikTok’s core design features—including infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications, and its personalised recommendation system—may put the platform in breach of the Digital Services Act (DSA).
In preliminary findings released as part of an ongoing investigation, the European Commission said these features could be considered “addictive design” and may require TikTok to “change the basic design of its service” to comply with EU law.
The Commission argued that TikTok failed to implement sufficient safeguards to prevent these features from harming users’ physical and mental well-being, particularly by encouraging prolonged, compulsive use of the app.
According to the Commission, the platform’s constant delivery of new content can shift users into “autopilot mode,” where self-control is reduced and scrolling becomes habitual. It cited scientific research suggesting that such design patterns can lead to compulsive behaviour.
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Regulators also said TikTok’s current parental controls and screen-time tools appear inadequate, suggesting the company may need to strengthen these measures and potentially limit infinite scroll while adjusting how its recommendation algorithm functions.
TikTok has been given the opportunity to respond to the findings before the investigation concludes. If ultimately found in violation of the DSA, the company could face a fine of up to 6 percent of its global annual turnover.
Responding to the allegations, a TikTok spokesperson told the Financial Times that the Commission’s findings present “a categorically false and entirely meritless depiction” of the platform, adding that the company would challenge the conclusions through all available channels.
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