The European Commission will launch an investigation into the integration of AI functions in WhatsApp, suspecting violations of competition rules.

The European Union is preparing an official investigation into how Meta has integrated 'Meta AI' into the WhatsApp application, a step that could violate competition rules. According to the Financial Times, the European Commission will analyze the activation of these functionalities in Europe, which offer prompt suggestions and assistance in drafting messages. European authorities, concerned about the impact of this integration, have been alerted by a similar investigation opened in Italy, where Meta is suspected of abusing its dominant position. The investigation also extends to the conditions imposed on companies using WhatsApp Business, which could limit access for other AI technology developers.

The European Commission will use classic antitrust legislation to conduct the analysis, providing more flexibility to investigators. Meta has not specifically commented on the investigation but considers the accusations in Italy to be unfounded, arguing that the changes do not affect users' freedom of choice.