In brief
During a landmark trial in California against Instagram and YouTube, Prince Harry addressed bereaved families, thanking them for sharing their stories and advocating for accountability from major tech companies. The trial's focus is on the alleged damaging effects of these platforms on young people's mental health, with families claiming they are designed to be addictive.
The Duke of Sussex has thanked bereaved families mounting a legal challenge against two of the world's biggest tech companies for telling your stories over and over again.
Prince Harry made the remarks in an at-times emotional address to parents gathered after the start of a landmark trial in California that will examine whether Instagram and YouTube damage young people's mental health.
The families are alleging that the online platforms are addictive by design. Lawyers for YouTube and Meta, which owns Instagram, reject the allegations.
Prince Harry expressed hope for truth, justice and accountability in footage shared exclusively with BBC Breakfast.
His remarks come after the prince launched a campaign for stronger protections for children from the dangers of social media last year.
He thanked the bereaved families, stating, We've said time and time again that this is a David versus Goliath situation. He continued, sharing his understanding of the overwhelming emotions that accompany legal challenges, recognizing the value of their stories in seeking justice.
Ellen Roome, who believes her 14-year-old son died after an online challenge went wrong, traveled to the US to support the case, stating, We can't make a difference for our children, but we can make a difference for other people's children.
The trial is seen as a significant moment in acknowledging the risks associated with social media engagement by youth.
The BBC has approached YouTube and Meta for comment, as the outcome of the California case could influence broader legislative efforts aimed at tightening regulations for tech giants.
