Meta seeks to avoid EU fine with free WhatsApp access for rival AI chatbots
Meta offered free one-month WhatsApp Business API access to rival AI chatbots in the European Economic Area (EEA) to resolve EU antitrust concerns, following a second charge sheet over its earlier policy restricting access to Meta AI only. The move aims to avoid a potential fine of up to 10% of Meta’s global turnover, with discussions ongoing between Meta and the European Commission.
Meta Platforms has proposed giving rival AI chatbots free access to its WhatsApp Business API for one month in the European Economic Area (EEA) as part of ongoing negotiations with the European Commission. This follows the EU’s indication last month that it may order Meta to provide such access to competitors, addressing concerns raised after Meta initially restricted WhatsApp API usage to its own Meta AI assistant in January. The policy change in March allowed rivals to use WhatsApp for a fee, prompting a second formal charge from the EU. The Commission welcomed Meta’s latest offer, calling it a step toward resolving the case without a finding of wrongdoing or a fine—potentially up to 10% of Meta’s global revenue. The EU’s decision hinges on Meta’s willingness to address the core antitrust issues. The investigation was triggered by a complaint from The Interaction Company, developer of the Poke.com AI assistant, and a Spanish competitor. The Commission emphasized the need for a swift resolution, stating that the month-long access period is conditional on Meta’s commitment to addressing its concerns comprehensively. If successful, the agreement would prevent Meta from facing penalties while ensuring fair market access for AI developers in the EEA. The Commission’s spokesperson stressed that the window for negotiations is limited and that Meta must demonstrate genuine intent to comply with EU competition rules.
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