Meta's recent decision to block news links within Canada's borders has not significantly altered the usage patterns of Facebook, according to data analysis from independent tracking firms. Despite criticism from Canadian authorities, the daily engagement of users and the time spent on the Facebook app have shown slight variation since the news block was enacted in early August.

Analytical reports from Similarweb and Data.ai reveal that the platform's usage in Canada has remained relatively stable since the news block was implemented in August. Meta has maintained that news links account for less than 3% of content in its Facebook feeds and do not contribute economically to the company. Despite this claim, reports indicate that news remains popular on Facebook in the United States, where it is disclosed as the most frequently viewed content.

The Canadian government plans to release specific implementation rules for the Online News Act by December, after which platforms are expected to finalize agreements with publishers.

Why does it matter?

This outcome appears to validate Meta's claim that news content makes a limited contribution to its platform's overall value. This viewpoint stands as a significant point of dispute as the company engages in a standoff with the Canadian government regarding the Online News Act. This legislation mandates that internet giants compensate news content providers, a precedent that could extend to other jurisdictions following this regulatory trend.