Instagram has abandoned its PG-13 branding for teen content restrictions after the Motion Picture Association threatened legal action over trademark infringement. The social media giant had introduced Teen Accounts in 2024, promising content would align with movie rating standards that allow some violence and crude language while avoiding graphic material.

Meta's retreat comes as the company faces mounting legal challenges over child safety. Last week, juries in New Mexico and California found Meta had misled consumers about platform safety and pushed addictive technologies harmful to young users. The company had hoped the familiar PG-13 rating would reassure parents about age-appropriate content, but the Motion Picture Association objected to its use without permission.

Instagram will now add disclaimers clarifying it didn't collaborate with the film industry on its content settings. The company says it drew inspiration from movie ratings but the M.P.A. isn't endorsing or approving its restrictions. This marks another setback for Meta as it defends against criticisms over child safety and seeks to rebuild trust with parents concerned about their teenagers' online experiences.