OAKLAND, Aug. 19 -- Meta Platforms has rejected allegations that it deliberately designed Facebook and Instagram to addict children. The claims emerged as a major US trial opened in California.

Read More: Meta Platforms faces major US trial over child safety claims

Twenty-nine US states are suing Meta over its treatment of young users. They are seeking potentially billions of dollars in penalties and major changes to its business practices. Four states lead the case, including California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey.

The states accuse Meta of designing its platforms to keep children online for longer periods. They also allege the company fueled anxiety, depression and suicide among young users. The states further accuse Meta of i...