Last week, ChatGPT and Copilot announced their withdrawal from WhatsApp due to Meta’s new policy changes, now facing scrutiny from the European Union. The European Commission launched an antitrust investigation into whether Meta’s updated terms stifle competition, as they restrict AI companies from using WhatsApp’s Business API. While WhatsApp permits AI tools for customer support, third-party services are largely banned, effective January 15, 2026. This shift has resulted in Microsoft and OpenAI’s decision to stop offering services via WhatsApp. The European Commission expressed concern that these new rules may block competing AI providers from reaching customers on the platform, while Meta’s own service, “Meta AI,” remains available. A Meta representative dismissed these claims as unfounded, arguing that AI chatbots strain their system. As WhatsApp becomes an essential communication tool globally, this investigation raises vital questions about competition and user choice in the messaging landscape.
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