Italy’s antitrust authority (AGCM) on Wednesday ordered Meta Platforms to suspend contractual terms that could exclude rival AI chatbots from WhatsApp, as it investigates the U.S. technology group for suspected abuse of a dominant market position, reports Reuters.
Meta criticized the decision, with a spokesperson calling it “fundamentally flawed” and arguing that the rapid rise of AI chatbots has strained systems “they were not designed to support.” The company said it plans to appeal the order.
The move is the latest in a series of actions by European regulators against major technology firms, as the European Union seeks to curb the expanding influence of Big Tech while continuing to support innovation in the sector.
According to the AGCM, Meta’s conduct appears capable of restricting “output, market access or technical development in the AI chatbot services market,” potentially harming consumers by limiting choice and competition.
The Italian watchdog opened its investigation into Meta in July over WhatsApp’s dominant position and expanded the probe in November to include updated contractual terms for the messaging app’s business platform.
“These contractual conditions completely exclude Meta AI’s competitors in the AI chatbot services market from the WhatsApp platform,” the authority said.
EU antitrust regulators launched a parallel investigation last month into the same allegations. The AGCM said it is coordinating closely with the European Commission to ensure Meta’s conduct is addressed “in the most effective manner.”
Europe’s tougher regulatory stance—sharply contrasting with the more permissive U.S. approach—has drawn criticism from U.S. technology executives and from the administration of President Donald Trump.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
