Meta Offers Limited WhatsApp Access to Rival AI in EU

Meta Platforms has proposed granting rival AI chatbots, including OpenAI, limited access to WhatsApp in the European Union, following pressure from the European Commission under EU competition rules. The proposal would allow free use of WhatsApp’s business API up to a defined messaging threshold, after which Meta would begin charging fees. The move is intended to address concerns that Meta unfairly restricted access to a key digital gateway.

The offer was submitted to EU antitrust regulators in May as part of an ongoing investigation into whether Meta’s WhatsApp policies distort competition in emerging AI assistant markets. The Commission has indicated it may impose interim measures requiring access until the case is concluded, reflecting a broader enforcement strategy to prevent dominant platforms from locking in new markets at an early stage.

Meta has confirmed that rival AI providers currently receive free access to the WhatsApp business API for one month while discussions with regulators continue. However, smaller AI developers have criticized the proposal, arguing that capped free usage and subsequent fees could limit their ability to scale. They also point out that Meta’s own AI assistant is not subject to the same conditions, as it does not rely on the API.

The case highlights the EU’s increasing focus on safeguarding competition in digital and AI-driven services. It also illustrates how traditional antitrust tools, alongside newer frameworks such as the Digital Markets Act, are being used to ensure openness, prevent self-preferencing, and maintain fair access to essential platform infrastructure.