Meta's AI Integration in WhatsApp Sparks Antitrust Investigation

Italy's antitrust authority announced on Wednesday that it has opened an investigation into Meta Platforms. The allegation centers on claims that Meta has abused its dominant market position by integrating an artificial intelligence tool into the WhatsApp messaging service.

The watchdog suggests that Meta may have breached European Union competition laws by embedding Meta AI into WhatsApp without securing user consent. This integration, according to the authority, might unfairly disadvantage competitors. Meta, responding to the allegations, stated that the AI service is beneficial for users.

The Italian authority, AGCM, worked in coordination with the European Commission's relevant offices, highlighting the collaborative nature of the ongoing investigation. The probe includes inspections at Meta's subsidiary offices with the support of Italy's tax police antitrust unit.

(With inputs from agencies.)