The European Commission recently launched an investigation into Meta after the company decided to block external artificial intelligence chatbots on WhatsApp. This decision, which affects major players like OpenAI and Microsoft, raises questions about competition and fair access to the AI market. Discover the details of this case that could have significant repercussions for the future of automated chat services.
The 3 key points not to miss
- Meta has changed WhatsApp policies, banning the use of external AI chatbots on its platform.
- More than 50 million ChatGPT users on WhatsApp are affected by this change.
- The European Commission is investigating a potential abuse of dominant position by Meta.
WhatsApp policy changes
Meta recently updated its policy regarding the use of the WhatsApp Business Solution, resulting in the ban of external artificial intelligence chatbots. Only applications where AI plays a complementary role, such as in automated customer service, remain authorized. This decision makes it impossible to use full AI chatbots on the platform, directly impacting companies like OpenAI and Microsoft.
OpenAI reported that their ChatGPT service, which had more than 50 million users on WhatsApp, had to be suspended due to these new rules. Microsoft followed the same path for its Copilot tool, a month after the changes implemented by Meta.
Reaction of the European Commission
The European Commission expressed concerns about a possible abuse of dominant position by Meta. Indeed, these new rules prevent external AI services from operating on WhatsApp, while allowing Meta’s own AI to remain active on the platform. This situation could disadvantage other players in the artificial intelligence market.
Teresa Ribera, Vice-President of the European Commission, emphasized the importance of maintaining an open and competitive AI market, where citizens and businesses can access various services without monopoly.
Reaction of WhatsApp and international perspectives
WhatsApp responded to the allegations by calling them “unfounded.” According to the company, the WhatsApp Business API is not designed to handle the significant load generated by AI chatbots. This view is shared by The Register, which reported these claims.
Internationally, the United States has already expressed disagreement with European regulation in the tech sector. President Donald Trump had threatened to impose import tariffs on countries that restrict American tech companies. Although no official reaction has yet been formulated for this specific case, this matter could reignite transatlantic tensions.
Context of Meta and WhatsApp
Meta, formerly known as Facebook, is a tech giant that owns several social media platforms, including WhatsApp. WhatsApp, acquired by Facebook in 2014, is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, with billions of active users. Over the years, WhatsApp has evolved to include features aimed at businesses, such as the WhatsApp Business Solution, allowing companies to communicate directly with their customers.
With this new EU investigation, Meta finds itself once again in the spotlight, facing accusations of anti-competitive practices. This case could influence not only the future of WhatsApp but also the entire landscape of artificial intelligence services.