Meta Platforms must immediately stop preventing third-party artificial intelligence developers from accessing WhatsApp.
Italy’s competition authority, the AGCM, issued a strict interim order on Wednesday against the tech giant. The watchdog asserts that Meta blocking rival AI tools from its messaging ecosystem constitutes an abuse of its dominant market position.
This ruling escalates a probe that began in July 2025, signaling a major crackdown on Big Tech “walled gardens.”
Scrutiny Over Meta Blocking Rival AI
The conflict centers on restrictive terms Meta introduced for its WhatsApp Business Solution in late 2025.
Under these new rules, businesses were prohibited from using the platform if their primary service was an AI chatbot. Regulators argue this policy creates an uneven playing field. By excluding third-party developers, Meta effectively shields its own proprietary AI tools from competition.
According to the AGCM, maintaining these barriers could cause “irreparable harm” to competitors. Without access to WhatsApp’s massive global user base, rival firms face significant disadvantages in scale and reach.
The investigation’s scope has widened significantly since November. Initially focused on the integration of Meta AI, the inquiry now targets the broader exclusion of external innovation.
Infrastructure Strain vs. Market Dominance
Meta has swiftly rejected the regulator’s findings, labeling the decision “fundamentally flawed.”
The company denies anticompetitive intent. Instead, they argue that the restriction is a necessary technical safeguard. A spokesperson noted that the rapid influx of third-party bots has overwhelmed their existing infrastructure.
“The emergence of AI chatbots put a strain on our systems that they were not designed to support,” Meta stated.
Furthermore, the company contends that the digital services market remains robust, offering users plenty of alternatives. Consequently, Meta has confirmed it will appeal the ruling in court.
A Continental Crackdown
This standoff in Italy mirrors a larger regulatory trend across Europe.
Earlier this month, the European Commission launched a parallel investigation into Meta’s policies. These synchronized efforts aim to prevent American tech giants from monopolizing the emerging AI sector. However, the U.S. administration has criticized these moves, suggesting they unfairly target American innovation.
If the courts uphold the AGCM’s decision, Meta could face substantial fines and a permanent mandate to rewrite its business terms.
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