Meta's WhatsApp Artificial Intelligence Policy Under Scrutiny in EU Antitrust Investigation

BRUSSELS, Dec 4 European Union antitrust authorities launched an investigation on Thursday into Meta Platforms' upcoming policy concerning AI providers' access to WhatsApp. Officials expressed concerns that the rules could hinder competitors from offering AI services in Europe.

The European Commission noted that the policy, scheduled to take effect in January, might restrict rival AI companies from reaching WhatsApp users, while Meta's own AI solution, Meta AI, would continue to be available on the platform.

"It is essential that citizens and businesses in Europe can fully benefit from this technological shift, and that dominant digital players do not misuse their position to suppress innovative competitors," said EU antitrust chief Teresa Ribera. "We are examining whether Meta's policy could violate competition laws and whether immediate measures are needed to avoid potential lasting damage to AI market competition," she added.

Author: Maya Henderson