Italy’s competition authority, the AGCM, has ordered Meta Platforms to immediately suspend contractual terms in WhatsApp that effectively bar rival AI chatbots from accessing the platform’s business services. The decision, announced on December 24, 2025, comes amid an ongoing investigation into whether Meta is abusing its dominant position in messaging to extend control over the emerging AI chatbot market.
The probe began in July 2025, initially focusing on Meta’s integration of its own Meta AI tool into WhatsApp. It was expanded in November after Meta updated WhatsApp Business Solution terms on October 15, banning companies whose primary service is AI chatbots from using the platform—terms set to fully apply from January 15, 2026, for existing users. The AGCM argued these conditions “completely exclude Meta AI’s competitors” and could restrict market access, output, and technical development, ultimately harming consumers through reduced choice and innovation.
WhatsApp, with over 2 billion global users including more than 37 million in Italy, serves as a key gateway for business communications via its API. Regulators fear Meta is leveraging this dominance—similar to past scrutiny over data sharing and app interoperability—to favor its own AI offerings, potentially stifling rivals like those from OpenAI, Google, or independent developers.
A parallel EU antitrust investigation launched last month echoes these concerns, with the AGCM coordinating closely with the European Commission. This fits into broader European efforts to rein in Big Tech under frameworks like the Digital Markets Act, contrasting with lighter U.S. regulation.
Meta called the ruling “fundamentally flawed,” insisting the WhatsApp API was “not designed to support” widespread AI chatbot use, which strains systems. The company confirmed it will appeal while complying temporarily. If upheld, the case could force permanent changes, setting precedents for AI competition in messaging ecosystems.