The Italian competition authority (AGCM) ordered Meta Platforms to suspend a policy blocking rival AI chatbots from its WhatsApp messaging service.

This order stems from an ongoing investigation into whether Meta abuses its dominant market position by integrating its proprietary AI services.

The regulator expressed concern that Meta’s conduct limits market access and technical development for other AI chatbot providers. This action, the AGCM stated, could ultimately harm competition and detriment consumers.

The Italian authority confirmed it coordinates with European Union antitrust officials regarding the investigation. This signals potential for broader regulatory scrutiny across the bloc.