"AB is examining Meta's AI restrictions on WhatsApp."

Official Investigation by the EU Commission into Meta

The European Union (EU) Commission has launched an important investigation regarding WhatsApp, owned by Meta, related to the access of artificial intelligence providers. In this process, the Commission has sent an official complaint statement containing allegations against Meta.

Allegations of Violating Competition Rules

In the statement, it was noted that the EU has a preliminary view that Meta has violated competition rules by restricting access of third-party artificial intelligence assistants to WhatsApp users. It was expressed that such behavior risks hindering competitors' access to the rapidly growing artificial intelligence assistant market.

Market Protection through Temporary Measures

The EU Commission announced plans to implement temporary measures to prevent serious and irreparable harm in the market, while reserving Meta's right to defend itself regarding this policy change.

Meta's Updates and Artificial Intelligence Restrictions

It was reminded that Meta banned the usage of third-party general-purpose artificial intelligence assistants in WhatsApp with an update on October 15, 2025. From January 15, 2026, the only artificial intelligence assistant that can be used in WhatsApp will be identified as Meta's own tool, Meta AI.

EU Commission's Supervisory Authority

The compliance of companies operating in EU countries with competition rules is monitored by the EU Commission. If anti-competitive situations are detected, the Commission imposes heavy fines on companies.