Italy probes Facebook-parent Meta for possible abuse of dominance linked to WhatsApp AI features: Report

Italy’s antitrust authority (AGCM) has reportedly ordered Facebook-parent Meta to suspend certain contract terms linked to WhatsApp. According to a report by news agency Reuters, the move comes as the antitrust agency investigates the company for a possible abuse of market power. The Italian Competition Authority (AGCM) said the terms could block rival AI chatbots from operating on WhatsApp, potentially limiting competition in the AI chatbot market. The regulator said Meta’s actions could restrict market access, reduce innovation, and harm consumers.

The investigation began in July, when AGCM opened a probe into Meta over WhatsApp’s market position.