The European Commission is investigating whether recent changes to WhatsApp’s business model restrict competition in the artificial intelligence market, potentially violating EU antitrust rules. The probe centers on Meta’s limitations placed on third-party chatbot integration with WhatsApp, effectively curtailing their utilize beyond basic customer service functions.
The Commission is examining whether Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, is leveraging its dominant position in the messaging app market to stifle emerging AI competitors. According to a preliminary assessment, WhatsApp is considered a likely dominant communication application. If Meta systematically excludes third-party AI assistants, it could be deemed an abuse of its market-leading status, sources familiar with the matter confirmed.
The investigation was prompted by alterations to WhatsApp Business terms implemented last year. These changes significantly restricted the ability of external AI chatbots to operate within the platform. As of January 15th, services like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot are no longer accessible through WhatsApp, a development reported by multiple sources including GSMArena and Techzine Global.
The EU Commission has signaled its willingness to impose interim measures to reverse the restrictions while the investigation is ongoing. These measures would not predetermine the final outcome of the case but could temporarily alter WhatsApp’s operational parameters. The Commission formally notified Meta of the possibility of these measures on February 10, 2026, according to a statement released by Shaping Europe’s digital future.
Meta has publicly disputed the claims that its actions are anti-competitive. In a statement to Reuters, the company asserted that the WhatsApp Business API is not a primary distribution channel for AI chatbots. However, this assertion has not dissuaded regulators from pursuing the investigation.
WhatsApp boasts over 3 billion users worldwide, making it the most popular messaging app globally, with a presence in over 180 countries. More than 100 billion messages are exchanged daily on the platform, according to data from Tyntec and YCloud. This widespread adoption underscores the potential impact of any restrictions imposed on services operating within its ecosystem.
The EU Commission’s action follows a notification to Meta regarding the possible interim measures. The Commission has not indicated a timeline for the completion of the investigation or a decision on potential penalties. Meta has not responded to requests for further comment beyond its initial statement.
