Zuckerberg Reveals 2018 Instagram Spin-off Consideration Amid Antitrust Trial

During a trial in Washington, D.C., Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed that he contemplated spinning off Instagram in 2018 due to rising antitrust concerns, as the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) seeks to unwind Meta's acquisitions of both Instagram and WhatsApp. In a memo, Zuckerberg acknowledged that separating Instagram could address potential regulatory threats but ultimately opted for consolidation to foster growth, despite the risk of devaluing Facebook's core platform. His testimony highlighted the FTC's accusations of Meta's monopolistic practices, with Zuckerberg admitting Instagram's superior technology. The case underscores the heightened scrutiny on large tech firms and the ongoing debate over their market dominance. Zuckerberg's earlier communications also suggested that acquiring Instagram was a strategic move to neutralize competition and maintain Facebook's market position. This trial marks a significant moment in the ongoing legal battles facing Meta as regulators push for greater accountability in the tech industry.