Meta Offers WhatsApp AI Access to Rivals, But With Limits

Meta Platforms has reportedly offered rival AI chatbots free access to its WhatsApp messaging service in Europe. This proposal, intended to address concerns from EU regulators, includes a condition that charges will be applied once these third-party AI services exceed a specific message volume. The European Commission has been scrutinizing Meta's policy, which initially restricted WhatsApp to its own Meta AI assistant.

The offer was submitted to EU antitrust regulators last week, with a deadline of May 18 for feedback before the Commission decides on potential interim measures. Smaller AI companies, like The Interaction Company and Agentik, have voiced criticism, deeming Meta's proposal insufficient. They argue it discriminates against rivals and urge regulators to proceed with enforcement if Meta does not present a more constructive solution.