Italy Orders Meta to Pause WhatsApp AI Restriction
Italy has told Meta to suspend its rule blocking rival AI chatbots on WhatsApp. The decision targets Meta’s policy that limits access to WhatsApp’s business tools. The Italian Competition Authority said the rule may harm fair competition. As a result, regulators stepped in while the investigation continues. The authority believes the ban favors Meta AI inside WhatsApp. Therefore, it could reduce choice and slow innovation for users.
Officials warned the policy may damage competition beyond repair. They added that consumers could lose access to diverse AI tools.
Meta defends its WhatsApp business policy
Meta strongly disagreed with Italy’s order. However, the company said it will formally appeal the decision.
Meta argued that WhatsApp’s business API was never built for AI chatbots. In addition, it claimed large AI tools strain systems not designed for them. According to Meta, WhatsApp is not an app marketplace.
Instead, AI companies can reach users through websites and app stores.
The ban does not affect customer service bots. For example, businesses can still use AI for support chats.
Only general AI chatbots face restrictions. These include tools like ChatGPT and Claude.
Meanwhile, the European Commission has opened its own probe. Officials fear the policy could block AI services across the EU.As scrutiny grows, Meta faces pressure from multiple regulators. Therefore, the outcome could shape how AI tools appear on messaging apps.
