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Türkiye Opens Investigation Into Meta Over WhatsApp AI Integration

By  |  June 7, 2026
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Türkiye’s competition regulator has launched a formal investigation into U.S.-based technology company Meta, citing concerns that the company’s integration of its Meta AI assistant into WhatsApp could distort competition in the artificial intelligence market.

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    The Turkish Competition Authority announced the decision on June 5, stating that an initial review raised questions about whether competing AI services are able to access and function within WhatsApp on equal terms. According to a statement from the authority, preliminary findings indicated that rival generative AI chatbots and digital assistants may face obstacles that do not affect Meta’s own AI offering.

    The investigation will focus on whether Meta is leveraging WhatsApp’s vast user base and established network to strengthen the position of Meta AI in a way that could disadvantage competing providers. Per a statement issued by the regulator, authorities are assessing whether the company’s conduct could provide it with an unfair edge in the rapidly expanding AI sector.

    Related: Meta Challenges Potential EU Order Over WhatsApp Access for Rival AI Chatbots

    As part of the ongoing proceedings, Türkiye’s Competition Board has introduced interim measures aimed at preserving competitive conditions while the investigation continues. According to a statement from the authority, Meta must take steps to ensure that third-party AI providers are not subjected to practical or economic disadvantages when offering their services through WhatsApp.

    The regulator has given Meta one month to comply with the requirements. Per a statement from the Competition Authority, the company could face administrative sanctions if it fails to meet the conditions within the specified timeframe.

    Source: Daily News