The European Union (EU) has informed Meta that it has breached EU rules by blocking rival AI chatbots from accessing WhatsApp

• On 15 January 2024, Meta restricted access to WhatsApp so that only its own AI assistant, Meta AI, could use the platform.

• The European Commission stated that WhatsApp is an important entry point for AI chatbots like ChatGPT to reach users and accused Meta of abusing its dominant position by blocking competitors.

• Meta spokespersons responded, claiming the EU had misunderstood the situation and that WhatsApp Business was not a key way for users to interact with chatbots.

• Teresa Ribera, the EU's competition chief, emphasized the need to protect effective competition and prevent tech giants from using their market dominance unfairly.

• The EU is awaiting Meta's formal response to its findings. If Meta does not address the concerns, the EU may impose interim measures to prevent harm to the market.

• Mathias Vermeulen, a director at AWO law firm, said Meta could be required to reopen WhatsApp to third-party AI assistants if interim measures are applied.

• The case is part of a broader EU effort to investigate big tech companies under its digital laws.

• This issue follows the EU's actions against TikTok, where the Commission ordered changes to its "addictive design" or face potential fines.

• The EU also launched an inquiry into Elon Musk's X (formerly Twitter) in January, concerned that its AI tool Grok was used to create sexualized images of real people.