Meta Stock: EU Antitrust Probe Targets WhatsApp AI Integration

TLDR

• European Commission set to launch antitrust investigation into Meta’s AI integration within WhatsApp
• Investigation focuses on how Meta rolled out its Meta AI system in the messaging platform earlier this year
• Probe announcement expected Thursday or in coming days, though timing may shift
• This marks another regulatory hurdle for Meta in Europe where the company faces mounting scrutiny
• Investigation adds to Meta’s ongoing challenges with European regulators over business practices across its apps

The European Commission is preparing to launch an antitrust investigation into Meta Platforms over its artificial intelligence features in WhatsApp. The probe represents the latest regulatory challenge for the tech giant in Europe.

Brussels plans to examine how Meta integrated its Meta AI system into the messaging platform earlier this year. Two officials familiar with the matter confirmed the investigation to the Financial Times.

The commission could announce the probe on Thursday. However, the timing might still shift according to sources.

This investigation adds to Meta’s growing list of regulatory issues in Europe. The company has faced increasing scrutiny over its business practices across its family of apps.

Meta Platforms, Inc., META

Meta’s stock dropped 1.16% following the news. The decline reflects investor concerns about potential regulatory actions and their impact on the company’s AI strategy.

European Regulatory Pressure Mounts

The EU has been particularly active in policing tech companies’ operations within its borders. Meta has been a frequent target of these enforcement efforts.

The investigation centers on how Meta AI was rolled out to WhatsApp users. The commission appears focused on whether the integration violated competition rules.

Meta began introducing AI features to WhatsApp earlier this year. These features include AI-powered chat assistance and other automated tools.

The company has not yet commented publicly on the expected investigation. The probe’s announcement could come within days according to regulatory sources.

WhatsApp AI Features Under Scrutiny

WhatsApp serves as one of Meta’s most popular platforms globally. The messaging service has billions of users worldwide.

Meta’s AI integration strategy has been a key focus for the company. The tech giant has invested heavily in developing and deploying AI across its products.

European regulators have shown particular interest in how AI systems are implemented within dominant platforms. The commission’s investigation will likely examine whether Meta’s approach gives it an unfair advantage.

The probe comes as Meta continues to expand its AI capabilities. The company views AI as central to its future product development.

This investigation follows other regulatory actions Meta has faced in Europe. The company has dealt with privacy concerns, market dominance questions, and content moderation issues.

The commission’s decision to investigate reflects ongoing tension between big tech companies and European regulators. Brussels has established itself as a leader in tech regulation globally.

Meta’s AI rollout in WhatsApp reached users across multiple markets. The investigation will likely review how the feature was introduced and what data practices it involves.

Sources indicate the probe could be formally announced as early as Thursday. The European Commission has not confirmed the investigation timeline publicly.

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