Italy opens probe into Meta over AI tool in WhatsApp

Core Viewpoint - Italian antitrust authorities are investigating Meta for potentially violating EU competition laws by integrating its AI tool into WhatsApp, which may give the company a commercial advantage over competitors [3][4][5]. Group 1: Investigation Details - The investigation was initiated after Meta preinstalled its AI service on WhatsApp in March 2025, raising concerns about the company's dominant market position in consumer communications apps [4]. - The antitrust body stated that Meta might be "imposing" the use of its AI services on users, potentially harming competition by channeling its customer base into the emerging market without merit-based competition [4][5]. - An inspection of Meta's Italian subsidiary was conducted by the antitrust authority in collaboration with Italy's Financial Police [4]. Group 2: Potential Implications - Authorities expressed concerns that users could become "locked in" or "functionally dependent" on Meta AI, as the service's responses become increasingly useful and relevant over time [5]. - The investigation is being carried out in close cooperation with the European Commission, indicating a broader regulatory scrutiny of Meta's practices [5].