Italy’s competition watchdog has widened its antitrust probe into Meta Platforms over concerns that the company’s new artificial intelligence features on WhatsApp could harm competition in the fast-growing AI chatbot market, Reuters reported.
The Italian authority, known as AGCM, said that it is examining Meta’s updated WhatsApp Business Solution terms—introduced on October 15—and the integration of new Meta AI interaction tools into the messaging platform. Regulators warned that these changes could restrict market access, limit output, or curb technical development for rival AI chatbot providers, potentially strengthening Meta’s market dominance.
The watchdog also said it may impose interim measures to curb WhatsApp’s new terms or suspend the rollout of Meta’s AI features while the investigation continues. Such steps are rarely taken and typically signal heightened regulatory concern.
Meta did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment.
The expanded inquiry builds on a probe launched in July, when AGCM began investigating whether Meta violated European Union competition rules by integrating its Meta AI assistant into WhatsApp without obtaining user consent. At the time, regulators suggested that Meta’s ability to tie its AI assistant to a widely used messaging platform could give the company an unfair advantage over smaller competitors.
The latest move underscores increasing European scrutiny of large tech companies deploying AI-backed tools inside widely used services. EU officials have warned that dominant digital platforms could use AI integration to strengthen their market power unless safeguards are in place.
The investigation also lands as Meta rolls out AI-powered chat and content features across its apps—including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp—aimed at deepening user engagement and attracting businesses to its ecosystem.
If AGCM finds Meta violated antitrust rules, the company could face steep fines or be required to modify WhatsApp’s AI integration practices in Italy.
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