In a notable shift in its policy, WhatsApp has decided to exempt Brazil from its previously imposed ban on third-party AI chatbots. This change follows a directive from Brazil's competition regulator, CADE, which mandated the suspension of the restrictive policy while an investigation into its potential anticompetitive implications is underway. According to the official information, this decision marks a significant development in the ongoing discussions about competition in the tech industry.
WhatsApp's New Exemption for Brazilian Users
The exemption specifically targets users with Brazilian phone numbers, allowing them access to third-party AI chatbots that were previously restricted. This move represents a significant concession by WhatsApp in response to regulatory scrutiny, highlighting the growing influence of competition authorities in the tech sector.
Impact on Meta's AI Strategy
Moreover, this decision poses a challenge to Meta's broader strategy of integrating AI services within its own platforms, as it opens the door for external developers to engage with Brazilian users. As the investigation by CADE continues, the implications of this policy reversal could have lasting effects on WhatsApp's operational framework in Brazil and beyond.
Recently, Brazil's competition authority, CADE, mandated the suspension of Meta's policy against third-party AI chatbots on WhatsApp, highlighting concerns over competition in the tech industry. For more details, see read more.
