Italian Watchdog Steps In Against Meta Over WhatsApp AI Competition Rules

Italy’s competition watchdog has instructed Meta to temporarily halt certain WhatsApp policy changes that could prevent users from accessing competing artificial intelligence chatbots. The regulator raised concerns that the updated terms may unfairly favor Meta’s own AI services while limiting choice for users.

According to the authority, restricting interoperability or discouraging the use of third-party AI tools could reduce market competition and innovation in the rapidly growing AI sector. The move comes as messaging platforms increasingly integrate AI-powered features directly into their services.

Meta has been asked to pause the enforcement of these terms while the regulator reviews their potential impact on consumers and rival developers. The decision highlights growing scrutiny by European regulators over how major technology companies introduce AI features within dominant digital platforms.

The outcome of this review could influence how AI services are integrated into messaging apps across the European Union, setting an important precedent for fair competition and user choice.