The European Commission (EC) opened an investigation to assess whether a fresh Meta Platforms policy around restrictions on AI providers accessing its WhatsApp messaging service is anticompetitive.

The EC stated the policy announced in October prohibits providers from using a tool allowing businesses to communicate on WhatsApp when AI “is the primary service offered”.

Set to roll-out widely in 2026, the policy would allow businesses to use AI tools for ancillary or support functions including automated customer support through WhatsApp.

However, the EC explained its concerns centre on the fact the new policy may prevent AI providers from offering their service through WhatsApp.

“As a result of the new policy, competing AI providers may be blocked from reaching their customers through WhatsApp,” the EC stated.

“On the other hand, Meta’s own AI service Meta AI would remain accessible to users on the platform.”

The watchdog pointed out WhatsApp currently allows businesses to communicate with their customers through the platform, while several AI providers offer access to their assistants through the service.

Meta Platforms plans to implement the policy through an update to its WhatsApp terms and conditions for business users, applying to AI providers already present on messaging service as of 15 January 2026.

AI providers new to WhatsApp have been subject to the policy since 15 October.

A thorough formal investigation will cover the European Economic Area except for Italy, avoiding potential overlap with a separate case brought forward by Italian regulators against the Facebook owner.