Core Viewpoint - European antitrust regulators have initiated an investigation into Meta's new AI policy for WhatsApp, focusing on potential violations of EU competition rules related to access for AI providers [2][5][6] Group 1: Investigation Details - The European Commission's probe is centered on Meta's policy that restricts AI providers from using the "WhatsApp Business Solution" when AI is the primary service offered [2][3] - The Commission expresses concern that this policy may hinder third-party AI providers from delivering their services through WhatsApp in the European Economic Area [3][5] Group 2: Meta's Response - A spokesperson for WhatsApp has labeled the claims behind the investigation as "baseless," arguing that the AI chatbots strain their systems and that the AI market remains competitive [3][4] - Meta introduced the AI feature for WhatsApp in March, designed to assist users by suggesting prompts and completing messages [4] Group 3: Broader Regulatory Context - The investigation follows increased scrutiny from Italy's antitrust regulator, which is concerned about Meta potentially abusing its dominant position in the messaging market through AI features [5][6] - Regulators are examining whether these changes could restrict competitors' market entry, limit choices, or impede technological advancements in messaging-based AI tools [6] Group 4: Recent Legal Issues - Meta was recently ordered to pay 479 million euros (approximately $552 million) due to violations of the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Spain's antitrust law, with plans to appeal the ruling [6]