The European Commission has launched an antitrust investigation into Meta over its AI-related restrictions in WhatsApp, part of the bloc’s broader effort to enforce competition rules against U.S. tech giants. The probe focuses on Meta’s October policy, which bars AI providers from using WhatsApp tools for businesses when AI is the main service.
While AI can still be used for functions like customer support, Brussels said the policy might prevent third-party AI providers from offering services across the European Economic Area (EEA). Meta has defended the restrictions, stating that the WhatsApp Business API is designed to support business communications, not AI chatbots, and emphasizing that users have multiple ways to access AI services. The investigation excludes Italy, where separate proceedings are underway. EU antitrust fines can reach up to 10% of a company’s annual revenue, and previous cases have lasted several years.
Context: Third-Party Chatbot Withdrawals
The probe comes as OpenAI and Microsoft announced plans to exit WhatsApp following similar policy changes restricting third-party AI chatbots. These departures illustrate how Meta’s platform restrictions could consolidate its position in messaging-based AI services.
Regulatory Implications
The antitrust investigation reflects ongoing EU scrutiny of U.S. tech companies, following major fines against Google, Apple, and Meta. Teresa Ribera, European Commissioner for Competition, stressed the need to prevent dominant incumbents from abusing their power and crowding out innovative competitors. The case highlights tensions between competition enforcement and the rapidly evolving ecosystem of AI-enabled messaging tools.
