Despite Meloni – Trump friendship, Italy takes action against WhatsApp

Italy’s antitrust authority has ordered Meta to suspend WhatsApp terms that could block competing AI chatbots from accessing the platform.
The decision is part of a broader investigation into whether Meta is abusing its dominant position in the messaging market.
European regulators are increasingly scrutinizing Big Tech practices as they attempt to balance innovation with fair competition.

Regulators Target WhatsApp’s AI Restrictions

Italy’s competition watchdog, AGCM, has instructed Meta to halt contractual terms that may prevent rival AI chatbot providers from operating on WhatsApp. The authority said the rules could restrict market access, limit technical development and ultimately harm consumers. Meta responded by calling the decision “fundamentally flawed,” arguing that the rapid rise of AI chatbots has strained systems not originally designed for such use. The company confirmed it intends to appeal the order.

The investigation began in July, focusing on whether Meta was leveraging WhatsApp’s dominant position to disadvantage competitors. Regulators expanded the probe in November to include updated terms for WhatsApp’s business platform. According to AGCM, the conditions effectively exclude competing AI chatbot services from integrating with the messaging app. Such restrictions could influence how users and businesses adopt emerging AI tools.

European regulators have increasingly taken action against major technology firms. Their efforts aim to ensure that dominant platforms do not use their scale to limit competition in fast‑growing digital markets. The Italian authority emphasized that Meta’s behavior could have broader implications for innovation in AI‑driven services. Its order seeks to prevent potential harm while the investigation continues.

Parallel EU Investigation Intensifies Pressure

The European Commission has launched a parallel antitrust investigation into Meta over the same concerns. This coordinated approach reflects the EU’s broader strategy of addressing competition issues across multiple jurisdictions. Regulators are examining whether Meta’s policies create barriers for developers seeking to build AI chatbot services on WhatsApp. Their findings could shape future rules governing interoperability and platform access.

Meta’s stance contrasts sharply with Europe’s regulatory direction. The company argues that its systems face technical challenges when handling third‑party AI tools, suggesting that restrictions are necessary for stability. European authorities, however, remain focused on ensuring that dominant platforms do not impose disproportionate limitations. The tension highlights ongoing debates about how to regulate AI technologies without stifling innovation.

The EU’s tougher approach differs significantly from the more permissive regulatory environment in the United States. This divergence has prompted criticism from U.S. industry leaders and political figures, including members of the current administration. European officials maintain that strong oversight is essential to prevent anti‑competitive behavior in rapidly evolving digital markets. Their actions continue to influence global discussions on technology governance.

Coordinated Oversight Signals Broader Regulatory Shift

AGCM stated that it is working closely with the European Commission to ensure Meta’s conduct is addressed effectively. This collaboration underscores the increasing alignment among European regulators on competition issues involving major technology platforms. Authorities aim to create consistent enforcement across the region, particularly in sectors where cross‑border digital services dominate. Their joint efforts reflect a growing emphasis on transparency and fair access.

The case highlights the challenges regulators face as AI technologies become more integrated into everyday communication tools. Messaging platforms like WhatsApp play a central role in digital ecosystems, making access policies especially consequential. Restrictions on third‑party AI services could shape how users interact with emerging technologies. Regulators therefore view these investigations as critical to maintaining open and competitive markets.

Meta’s appeal is expected to prolong the legal process. The outcome may influence how other platforms structure their terms for AI integrations. Companies across the sector are watching closely as Europe continues to define the boundaries of acceptable conduct for dominant digital services. The decisions made in this case could set important precedents for future AI‑related regulation.