Background: Meta’s New AI Chatbot Policy
Earlier this month Meta notified developers that it would create an exemption for Italian phone numbers, allowing AI chatbots to serve users in Italy without charging developers.
Global Antitrust Attention
Since the announcement, regulators in the European Union, Italy and Brazil have launched anticompetitive investigations into the policy.
Brazil’s Legal Battle
Brazil’s watchdog initially ordered Meta to suspend the policy. A lower‑court preliminary injunction was issued, but a higher court overturned it last week, clearing the way for Meta to enforce the exemption.
Following the court’s decision, Meta instructed developers not to make their AI chatbots available to Brazilian users.
Implications for Developers
Developers now face a fragmented landscape:
- In Italy and the EU, the policy remains under investigation.
- In Brazil, the policy is temporarily enforceable, but developers are asked to withdraw services.
- Meta has not announced any developer fees, but regulatory pressure could lead to future monetisation.
What Comes Next?
Analysts expect further legal challenges and possible revisions to the policy as regulators seek to ensure fair competition in the rapidly growing AI chatbot market.