EU Orders Meta to Open WhatsApp to Rival AI Chatbots

The European Commission has issued interim measures forcing Meta (META) to restore third-party AI chatbot access to the WhatsApp Business API within five days, according to a report from decrypt. The decision is part of a broader investigation into Meta's compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Details of the Action

The interim measure requires Meta to reinstate access for rival chatbots to the WhatsApp Business API, which Meta had previously cut off. The deadline is five days from the date of the decision.

Company's Stance

Meta described the decision as 'regulatory overreach' and said it would review its legal options. The company argues that the measures violate principles of proportionality and technological neutrality.

Precedents and Context

This action is the latest in a long series of confrontations between big tech companies and European regulators. The DMA aims to ensure fair competition in digital markets and has previously been used against companies like Apple and Google.

Potential Financial Impact

No financial penalties have been announced yet for this interim measure. However, non-compliance could expose Meta to fines of up to 10% of its global annual revenue under the DMA.