European antitrust probe launched into WhatsApp for its use of artificial intelligence

LONDON The European Union has initiated an antitrust inquiry into WhatsApp, focusing on the messaging app's artificial intelligence policies. The investigation, announced Thursday, stems from concerns that WhatsApp is restricting access for third-party AI developers.

The European Commission stated that it has formally opened the investigation after WhatsApp introduced its AI chatbot for EU users in March, following several delays. Officials are worried that a recent policy update may prevent competing AI services from integrating their assistants on the platform, while Metas own AI chatbot continues to operate without restrictions.

Meta Platforms, the parent company of WhatsApp, has not provided a response to the inquiry. Teresa Ribera, vice president of the European Commission responsible for competition matters, emphasized the EUs goal to ensure that major technology firms do not stifle innovation. She said, We are examining whether Metas updated policy violates competition rules and whether urgent action is needed to avoid any potential harm to competition in the AI sector.

The investigation will apply across 26 EU countries, with the exception of Italy, where national authorities are conducting a separate antitrust review.

Author: Gavin Porter