EU launches antitrust probe into Meta's WhatsApp AI restrictions

THE DECODERThursday, December 4, 2025 at 4:04:36 PM
EU launches antitrust probe into Meta's WhatsApp AI restrictions
  • The European Commission has initiated a formal antitrust investigation into Meta, focusing on the company's restrictions regarding AI integrations in WhatsApp. This inquiry follows Meta's recent policy changes that have led to the removal of third-party AI chatbots, including ChatGPT and Copilot, from the platform.
  • This investigation is significant for Meta as it faces increasing scrutiny over its competitive practices in the tech industry. The outcome could impact Meta's operational strategies and its ability to maintain a dominant position in the AI messaging space.
  • The probe reflects broader concerns about competition and regulation in the tech sector, particularly as the EU grapples with balancing innovation and consumer protection. The scrutiny of Meta's policies is part of a larger trend where regulatory bodies are increasingly focused on ensuring fair competition among tech giants, especially in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Meta Weighs Cuts to Its Metaverse Unit
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Meta is planning to cut its metaverse unit budget by 30%, shifting its focus towards augmented reality wearables, particularly its successful augmented reality glasses. This decision reflects a strategic reassessment of the company's financial priorities under CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
Meta Stock Surges on Plans for Metaverse Cuts | Bloomberg Tech 12/4/2025
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Meta has announced plans to significantly cut resources allocated to its metaverse project, a shift from CEO Mark Zuckerberg's earlier vision of the metaverse as the company's future direction. This decision reflects a reevaluation of priorities amid financial pressures and scrutiny regarding the project's viability.
Meta Cuts Metaverse Unit Budget 30% | Open Interest 12/4/2025
NegativeArtificial Intelligence
Meta is set to reduce its metaverse unit budget by 30%, a significant cut that reflects a strategic shift under CEO Mark Zuckerberg as the company reassesses its financial priorities. This decision comes amid ongoing scrutiny and challenges in demonstrating profitability in its ambitious metaverse project.
Meta says it is shifting some of its investment from metaverse toward AI glasses and wearables, and "we aren't planning any broader changes than that" (Mike Isaac/New York Times)
NeutralArtificial Intelligence
Meta has announced a strategic shift in its investment focus, reallocating resources from its metaverse unit to augmented reality glasses and wearables, while affirming that no broader changes are planned. This decision includes a 30% budget cut for the metaverse unit, reflecting a reassessment of financial priorities.
Meta’s Metaverse Cuts Not Surprising: EMARKETER’s Smiley
NeutralArtificial Intelligence
Minda Smiley, a senior analyst at EMARKETER, expressed that she is not surprised by Meta's decision to cut resources for its metaverse unit, highlighting the company's ongoing challenges in monetizing this venture. This discussion took place during an interview on Bloomberg Tech with Caroline Hyde and Ed Ludlow.
Google rolls out Gemini 3 "Deep Think" for Gemini Ultra subscribers
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Google AI has launched an updated 'Deep Think' mode for Gemini Ultra subscribers within the Gemini app, enhancing user experience and interaction capabilities. This rollout follows a previous delay for safety evaluations, indicating a careful approach to AI deployment.
Meta Plans Big Cuts to Its Metaverse Efforts
NegativeArtificial Intelligence
Meta is set to significantly reduce its investment in the metaverse, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg announcing a strategic shift that includes a 30% budget cut for the metaverse unit. This decision marks a departure from Zuckerberg's earlier vision of the metaverse as a central focus for the company's future growth.
EU plans five AI gigafactories with 100,000 high-performance AI chips
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
The European Union has announced plans to establish five AI gigafactories, which will produce 100,000 high-performance AI chips. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the EU's AI infrastructure and competitiveness in the global market.