The battle against screen addiction is a complex one, and it's not just about willpower. A recent panel discussion at the International Regulatory Conference (IRC) 2026 shed light on the insidious design tactics employed by tech giants to keep users glued to their devices. According to experts, features like autoplay, infinite scrolling, and notifications are not mere coincidences; they're carefully crafted to maximize engagement.
Dr. Chua Sook Ning, founder of Relate Malaysia, emphasized the psychological aspect of this design. She described the struggle of disengaging from devices, even when desired, as a result of these carefully constructed digital environments. The constant notifications and the fear of missing out (FOMO) create a powerful psychological pull.
Mediha Mahmood, CEO of Content Forum Malaysia, highlighted the concept of 'doomscrolling'. This phenomenon goes beyond the content itself; it's about the algorithms that curate and reinforce our online experiences. These algorithms, she argues, are designed to keep us in a feedback loop, showing us more of what we've already seen, potentially leading to a spiral of negative emotions and increased screen time.
The discussion raised important questions about the role of regulators. Should they focus solely on harmful content or also scrutinize the design of algorithms that drive user behavior? Mahmood advocates for a more proactive approach, suggesting that standards should be set to ensure the ethical design of these algorithms. She believes that while we don't want to dictate content, we should understand the potential harm of the current design practices.
Eneng Faridah Iskandar, from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, acknowledges the challenge. She points out that regulatory action must consider the type of content and its impact on behavior and addiction. While regulations can play a role, Iskandar emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach, including education, parental controls, and public awareness campaigns.
The key takeaway is that the battle against screen addiction requires a comprehensive strategy. It's not just about individual responsibility but also about understanding and addressing the design choices made by tech companies. As the digital world continues to evolve, finding a balance between innovation and user well-being becomes increasingly crucial.
