Meta Platforms said on May 12 it will provide rival AI chatbots free access to its WhatsApp Business API for one month in the European Economic Area (EEA) [1, 2]. This offer aims to address antitrust concerns raised by the European Commission and to avoid a potential fine of up to 10% of Meta’s annual global turnover [1].
The competition dispute began after Meta introduced a policy on January 15 that allowed only its own Meta AI assistant on WhatsApp [1]. It amended the policy in March to permit rival AI chatbots access for a fee, which triggered a second charge sheet from the European Commission [1]. Complaints from AI chatbot developers, including The Interaction Company and a Spanish competitor, prompted the EU investigation [1].
A Meta spokesperson said, “As part of ongoing discussions with the European Commission, general-purpose AI chatbots operating in the EEA will be given free access to the WhatsApp business API for one month” [1]. The Commission responded by stating, “The Commission believes this creates adequate conditions to discuss commitments with Meta that would address our concerns on the substance of the case” [1].
In April, the European Commission indicated it was inclined to require Meta to provide rival AI chatbots free access to WhatsApp, intensifying the pressure on Meta to resolve the issue [1]. The current offer is seen as a positive step by the EU competition enforcer in efforts to settle the investigation amicably [1].
Media reports publicized Meta’s announcement on May 13, highlighting the company’s attempt to forestall fines and ease regulatory scrutiny [2]. The one-month free access applies only within the EEA and involves general-purpose AI chatbots seeking to integrate with WhatsApp’s business API [1].
The European Commission’s next moves will likely focus on formal commitments from Meta to ensure ongoing fair access. The resolution deadline or further enforcement actions have not yet been announced.
