The European Commission warned Meta Platforms it may order interim measures to force WhatsApp to reopen its platform to rival AI assistants. The regulator sent a Statement of Objections claiming Meta may have breached EU antitrust rules by shutting out competitors from its messaging service.

Meta changed its WhatsApp Business Solution Terms in October, which took effect in January and left only Meta AI available on the platform. The Commission believes this policy risks blocking competitors in the fast-growing AI assistant market and could cause serious harm to competition if allowed to continue during the investigation.

WhatsApp represents a key gateway for AI assistants to reach users in the European Economic Area, where it's likely dominant in consumer communication apps. The Commission opened formal proceedings against Meta in December under Article 102 of the EU treaty, which bans abuse of dominant market positions.

Quick Fact: Commission opened formal proceedings against Meta in December.