EU proposes app design rules giving adults controls over addictive features
The Digital Fairness Act would also require consent before free trials become paid subscriptions and allow fines of up to 6% of global annual turnover.
The European Commission has proposed legislation that would let adults disable app features such as autoplay and daily streaks, while prohibiting deceptive sales tactics. The proposed Digital Fairness Act would extend protections against addictive design beyond children.
The controls could apply beyond social media to streaks on services including Duolingo and Strava, according to WIRED. Duolingo previously said introducing a streak animation made new learners 1.7% more likely to continue using the service for a week.
Under the proposal, businesses could not falsely suggest that products were nearly sold out or use guilt-inducing wording on buttons for declining offers. Customers would need to actively approve the switch from a free trial to a paid subscription. Cancellation would have to be straightforward, with access to a human customer service representative if problems persisted.
Dynamic ticket pricing would remain permitted. Instead of banning it, the proposal would require ticket sellers to show people in online queues both the current price and its maximum possible level, with updates in real time, The Irish Times reported.
The Commission is seeking authority to investigate major cross-border cases directly, with potential fines reaching 6% of global annual turnover. The proposal still needs agreement from the European Parliament and member states. Its requirements would begin applying a year after the law takes effect.
