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EU investigates AI access to WhatsApp

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

EU Accuses Meta of Blocking AI Competition on WhatsApp: Breaking News & What It Means for You

Brussels – The European Commission has fired a fresh salvo against tech giant Meta (formerly Facebook), initiating a formal antitrust investigation into whether the company is illegally restricting access to WhatsApp for artificial intelligence (AI) providers. This breaking news comes as regulators worldwide increasingly scrutinize the power of Big Tech and its impact on innovation. The investigation centers around Meta’s recent policy change prohibiting AI companies whose primary function *is* AI from using WhatsApp’s business platform to communicate with customers.

What’s Happening? The Core of the EU’s Concerns

In October, Meta announced that AI providers offering AI as their core service would be barred from utilizing a specific WhatsApp communication feature. While businesses can still leverage WhatsApp if AI is merely a supporting tool – like an automated customer service chatbot – the EU believes this distinction unfairly disadvantages standalone AI companies. The Commission fears this policy could stifle the growth of the AI sector in Europe, limiting consumer choice and hindering technological advancement. EU Commissioner Teresa Ribera emphasized the need to ensure “European citizens and companies can fully benefit from this technological revolution.”

Beyond WhatsApp: A Pattern of EU Scrutiny

This isn’t an isolated incident. The EU is already pursuing multiple investigations into Meta’s practices under its Digital Services Act (DSA). These include concerns over data transparency, the handling of illegal content on Facebook and Instagram, and the protection of minors from addictive algorithms. Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, has publicly criticized these regulations, labeling them “institutionalized censorship,” a sentiment echoed by some US politicians who argue the rules are anti-competitive. However, the current investigation focuses specifically on competition law, potentially leading to a more measured response from the US government, which recently lost a bid to break up Meta in a similar antitrust case.

Why This Matters: The Bigger Picture of AI Regulation

The rise of AI is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. Regulators are grappling with how to foster innovation while preventing monopolies and protecting consumers. WhatsApp, with over two billion users globally, represents a massive potential channel for AI-powered services. By controlling access to this platform, Meta wields significant influence over the future of AI deployment. This case highlights a critical question: should dominant platforms be allowed to prioritize their own AI offerings, or should they be required to provide equal access to competitors? The outcome of this investigation could set a precedent for how AI is integrated into messaging platforms across the EU and beyond.

Meta’s Defense: System Strain and Alternative Access

Meta vehemently denies any wrongdoing. A spokesperson stated the EU’s claims are “unfounded,” arguing that the surge in AI chatbot traffic is straining WhatsApp’s systems, which weren’t designed to handle such volume. The company maintains that users will still have access to AI services through alternative channels like app stores, search engines, and email. However, the EU is unconvinced, believing that WhatsApp’s reach and convenience offer a unique advantage that Meta is unfairly leveraging.

What Happens Next? The Investigation Timeline & Potential Penalties

The European Commission’s investigation is now underway, but there’s no set timeline for completion. Antitrust investigations can be lengthy and complex. If the Commission finds Meta in violation of EU competition law, the company could face substantial fines – potentially billions of euros – and be forced to change its policies to ensure fair access for AI providers. This case is a crucial test of the EU’s resolve to regulate Big Tech and promote a competitive digital landscape. For readers interested in staying ahead of the curve on SEO and Google News updates, Archyde will continue to provide comprehensive coverage of this developing story and its implications.

As the EU continues to push for greater digital regulation, and as AI continues its rapid evolution, expect more scrutiny of tech giants like Meta. This investigation isn’t just about WhatsApp and AI; it’s about the future of competition and innovation in the digital age.

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Technology

EU Imposes Record €2.95 Billion Fine on Google for Online Advertising Market Abuse

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Google Hit with Record €2.95 Billion Fine Over AdTech practices

Table of Contents

Brussels – The European Commission has levied a historic fine of €2.95 billion against Google,alleging the technology giant abused its leading position within the digital advertising technology sector. The ruling, announced today, September 10, 2025, centers on accusations that Google prioritized its own services, specifically the Ad Exchange, known as AdX, over those of competitors, to the detriment of advertisers adn publishers.

Allegations of Self-Preferencing

According to the Commission, Google engaged in self-preferencing practices between 2014 and the present. These actions allegedly involved favoring AdX within its advertising ecosystem, leading to an unfair advantage and hindering competition. The EU Antitrust Authority has mandated that Google cease these practices and implement measures to mitigate conflicts of interest throughout its adtech operations. The company has been granted a 60-day period to submit proposals outlining how it intends to comply.

The Commission asserts that Google’s conduct solidified its dominance in the market, enabling it to impose elevated rates.Officials have indicated that the eventual resolution may necessitate the divestiture of certain Google services to fully address the competitive distortions. This is not the first time Google has faced antitrust scrutiny regarding its advertising practices.

International Scrutiny and Parallel Investigations

This case mirrors an ongoing inquiry initiated by the United states Department of Justice. A trial related to these concerns is currently scheduled for September 2025. These parallel proceedings highlight the growing global concern over the market power wielded by major technology companies and the need for increased regulatory oversight.

Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President for a clean, right and competitive transition, stated that the decision demonstrates Google’s abuse of its dominant position within Adtech. She further emphasized the illegal nature of this behavior under EU antitrust regulations. Ribera stressed the importance of resolving conflicts of interest and warned that rigorous measures will be imposed if Google fails to offer a viable solution.”Digital markets exist to serve people and must be founded on trust and equity,” Ribera proclaimed. “When the markets fail, public institutions must act.”

Did You Know? The digital advertising market is projected to reach $689.30 billion in 2024, according to Statista, demonstrating the significant economic impact of these antitrust cases. Source: Statista

Key Fact Details
Fine Amount €2.95 Billion
regulatory Body European Commission
Alleged Period of Violation 2014 – Present
affected Area Digital Advertising Technology (AdTech)
Compliance Deadline 60 Days

Pro Tip: Understanding the intricacies of adtech is crucial for businesses relying on digital marketing. keeping abreast of regulatory changes can help ensure compliance and optimize ad spending.

The broader Implications of AdTech Regulation

The Google fine signifies a broader trend of increased regulatory scrutiny of Big Tech firms and their data-driven advertising practices. The core issue revolves around the concentration of power within a few key players and the potential for anti-competitive behavior. Regulators worldwide are grappling with how to balance fostering innovation with protecting competition and consumer interests,especially in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Moreover, the focus on data privacy, exemplified by regulations like GDPR, adds another layer of complexity to the adtech ecosystem.

frequently Asked Questions about the Google AdTech Fine

  • What is AdTech? AdTech, or advertising technology, refers to the tools and platforms used to serve digital advertisements. It encompasses areas like ad exchanges, demand-side platforms, and data management platforms.
  • Why is Google being fined? Google is being fined for allegedly favoring its own ad exchange (AdX) over competing services, violating EU antitrust rules.
  • What does “self-preferencing” mean in this context? Self-preferencing refers to Google giving its own services an unfair advantage within its digital ecosystem, hindering competition from rival adtech companies.
  • What are the potential consequences for Google? Google must cease the self-preferencing practices and could be forced to sell off parts of its adtech business if it doesn’t comply.
  • How will this impact advertisers? the aim is to create a more competitive adtech market, possibly leading to lower advertising costs and increased choices for advertisers.
  • Will this affect consumers? Regulators hope this will lead to greater openness in digital advertising and better protection of consumer data.

What are your thoughts on Google’s dominance in the digital advertising sector? Do you believe further regulation is needed to ensure fair competition?

Share this article and join the discussion!

What strategies can advertisers employ to mitigate risks associated with relying on a single ad exchange like Google Ads?

EU Imposes Record €2.95 Billion Fine on Google for online advertising Market Abuse

the Landmark Decision: A Deep Dive

On September 10,2025,the european Commission announced a record-breaking €2.95 billion fine levied against Google for anti-competitive practices in the digital advertising market. this penalty, one of the largest ever imposed on a tech giant, stems from a decade-long examination into Google’s dominance in the online advertising technology (ad tech) supply chain. The core issue? Google allegedly favored its own ad exchange, Google Ads, while disadvantaging competitors.

This isn’t Google’s first brush with EU antitrust scrutiny. Previous fines have targeted Android practices and shopping services, but this latest penalty considerably surpasses those in scale and scope. The Commission argues Google abused its market position as both a provider of ad tech services and an operator of a major ad exchange, creating an unfair advantage.

How Google allegedly Abused its Market Power

The EU’s investigation revealed a complex web of anti-competitive behaviors. Here’s a breakdown of the key allegations:

Self-Preferencing: Google prioritized its own ad exchange, Google Ads, in auctions, ensuring it consistently won bids over those from rival ad exchanges. This effectively steered advertising revenue towards Google’s own platforms.

Data Advantage: Google leveraged the vast amount of user data it collects across its services (Search, YouTube, Chrome, etc.) to give Google Ads an unfair advantage in targeting and optimizing ad campaigns. Competitors lacked access to comparable data.

Restrictions on Competitors: Google imposed contractual restrictions on publishers, making it arduous for them to use competing ad tech services. this limited the options available to publishers and reinforced Google’s dominance.

Bundling: Google bundled its ad tech services, making it harder for competitors to offer standalone solutions.

these practices, the Commission contends, resulted in higher prices for advertisers and reduced revenue for publishers. The investigation focused specifically on Google’s practices related to display advertising – the banner ads you see across the web.

understanding the Ad Tech Supply Chain

To grasp the importance of this fine, it’s crucial to understand how the ad tech ecosystem works. It’s a multi-layered process:

  1. Publishers: Website owners who have ad space to sell.
  2. advertisers: Businesses wanting to display ads to reach potential customers.
  3. Ad Exchanges: Digital marketplaces where ad space is bought and sold in real-time auctions.
  4. Ad Servers: Technology used to manage and deliver ads.
  5. Demand-Side Platforms (DSPs): Tools used by advertisers to automate ad buying.
  6. Supply-Side Platforms (SSPs): Tools used by publishers to manage and sell their ad inventory.

Google operates across multiple layers of this supply chain, giving it significant control and influence. The EU argues this vertical integration,combined with the alleged anti-competitive practices,stifled competition.

Impact on the Digital Advertising Industry

The €2.95 billion fine is expected to have far-reaching consequences for the digital advertising industry.

Increased Scrutiny: This decision signals a heightened level of scrutiny from regulators towards dominant tech companies and their practices. Expect further investigations and potential penalties.

level Playing Field: The Commission hopes the fine will create a more level playing field for competitors in the ad tech market, fostering innovation and benefiting both advertisers and publishers.

Potential Remedies: Beyond the fine, the EU has ordered Google to remedy its anti-competitive practices.This could involve divesting parts of its ad tech business or changing its operational procedures.

Shift in Market Dynamics: The ruling may encourage advertisers and publishers to diversify their ad tech partners, reducing their reliance on Google.

Google’s response and Potential Appeals

Google has publicly stated its disagreement with the EU’s decision, arguing that its ad tech practices benefit both advertisers and publishers. The company is expected to appeal the ruling, potentially prolonging the legal battle for years. google maintains that the digital advertising market is highly competitive and that its innovations have driven significant growth in the industry.

What This Means for Advertisers

The EU’s action has implications for businesses that rely on digital advertising:

Diversification of Ad Spend: consider diversifying your ad spend across multiple platforms and ad networks to reduce reliance on Google Ads.

Explore Option DSPs & SSPs: Investigate alternative Demand-Side Platforms (DSPs) and Supply-Side Platforms (SSPs) to gain access to a wider range of ad inventory and targeting options.

Focus on First-Party Data: With increasing privacy regulations and potential changes to ad targeting,prioritize collecting and leveraging first-party data (data collected directly from your customers).

Transparency & Accountability: Demand greater transparency and accountability from your ad tech partners regarding ad placement and performance.

The Broader Context: Global Antitrust Efforts

The EU’s action against Google is part of a broader global trend of increased antitrust enforcement against Big Tech companies. Regulators in the United States, the united Kingdom, and other countries are also investigating Google and other tech giants for potential anti-competitive practices. This coordinated effort suggests a growing consensus that these companies wield too much power and require greater oversight.The US Department of Justice has its own ongoing antitrust case

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Health

Gaza Doctors Battle Rare Paralysis Amid Israeli Blockade: Challenges in Healthcare Access and Treatment Amidst Political Constraints

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health


Surge in Acute Flaccid Paralysis Cases Linked to enterovirus in Gaza

Table of Contents

Gaza is currently grappling with a significant increase in cases of acute flaccid paralysis, a rare condition that weakens muscles and can lead to paralysis. Health officials have reported a dramatic rise in cases in recent months, raising serious concerns about public health in the region.

The Emerging Health Crisis

Prior to October 2023, instances of acute flaccid paralysis were considered exceptionally uncommon, typically seeing only one or two cases annually. However, recent data indicates a surge, with nearly 100 cases identified within the last three months, according to medical professionals on the ground. This considerable increase has prompted a swift response from international health organizations.

Enterovirus Identified as Primary Cause

Laboratory analysis of samples sent to both Jordan and Israel has confirmed the presence of enterovirus, a group of viruses known to spread through close contact and contaminated water. Enteroviruses,wich include poliovirus,are typically transmitted via the fecal-oral route. Experts note that the prevalence of raw sewage in areas like Khan Younis considerably contributes to the virus’s spread.

WHO Report Highlights Worsening Conditions

The World Health Association (WHO) reported 32 confirmed cases of acute flaccid paralysis among individuals under the age of fifteen as of July 31. The organization attributes this surge to a combination of factors, including improved surveillance efforts, the deterioration of water and sanitation systems, rising rates of malnutrition, and limited access to essential healthcare services. According to the WHO, approximately 70 percent of tested samples pointed to a non-polio enterovirus, a notable increase from the 26 percent observed in previous years.

Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

Healthcare providers in Gaza are facing substantial challenges in accurately diagnosing and treating patients due to critical shortages of diagnostic equipment, laboratory resources, and testing capabilities. This shortage complicates clinical assessments and hinders effective response efforts.The current situation is being closely monitored by international health bodies, with ongoing efforts to provide support and assistance.

International Response and condemnation

The escalating health crisis comes amid growing international disapproval of actions in Gaza. European Commission Vice President Teresa Ribera recently stated that the situation “looks very much” like genocide, a claim disputed by involved parties. The crisis underscores the urgent need for improved humanitarian access and infrastructure investment to mitigate the health risks faced by the population.

Indicator Pre-October 2023 Recent (Last 3 Months)
Acute Flaccid Paralysis Cases 1-2 per year Nearly 100
Enterovirus positive Samples N/A 70% of tested samples

Understanding Enteroviruses

Enteroviruses are a common group of viruses that can cause a range of illnesses, from mild respiratory infections to more severe conditions like paralysis. Thay are especially prevalent in the summer and fall months. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and proper sanitation, are crucial in preventing the spread of these viruses. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people infected with enteroviruses experience only mild symptoms.

Did You Know?

Enteroviruses are not new, and outbreaks have occurred in various parts of the world throughout history. However, the current situation in Gaza is particularly concerning due to the combination of factors such as compromised sanitation and limited healthcare access.

Frequently Asked Questions About Enterovirus and Acute Flaccid Paralysis

  • What is enterovirus? Enterovirus is a common group of viruses that can cause a variety of illnesses.
  • How is enterovirus spread? It typically spreads through close contact with infected individuals or through contaminated surfaces and water.
  • What are the symptoms of acute flaccid paralysis? Symptoms include muscle weakness, often starting in the limbs, and can progress to paralysis.
  • Is there a cure for acute flaccid paralysis caused by enterovirus? There is no specific cure, and treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
  • Can enterovirus cause long-term health problems? In some cases, enterovirus infections can lead to long-term neurological complications.
  • What can be done to prevent the spread of enterovirus? Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, and maintaining proper sanitation are key preventive measures.
  • How is the WHO responding to the outbreak? The WHO is monitoring the situation closely and providing technical assistance and support to local health authorities.

What are your thoughts on the international community’s response to this health crisis? How can improved sanitation infrastructure best be implemented in conflict zones?

Share this article and join the conversation!


How does the ongoing Israeli blockade specifically impede the diagnosis and treatment of this rare paralysis in Gaza?

Gaza Doctors Battle Rare Paralysis Amid Israeli Blockade: Challenges in Healthcare Access and Treatment Amidst Political Constraints

The Emerging Neurological Crisis in Gaza

A concerning surge in cases of a rare neurological condition presenting as paralysis is overwhelming the already strained healthcare system in Gaza. Doctors on the ground are battling this outbreak amidst a continuing Israeli blockade, severely restricting access to essential medical supplies, equipment, and specialized training. This situation is creating a perfect storm, hindering diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, patient outcomes. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported in May 2025 that Gaza is facing widespread starvation, sickness, and death due to the ongoing aid blockade, exacerbating the vulnerability of the population to such health crises. https://www.who.int/news/item/12-05-2025-people-in-gaza-starving–sick-and-dying-as-aid-blockade-continues

Understanding the Paralysis: Symptoms and Potential Causes

While the exact etiology of this paralysis remains under investigation, initial reports suggest a cluster of symptoms including:

Sudden onset of weakness in the limbs.

Difficulty with coordination and balance.

In certain specific cases, complete paralysis.

Neurological symptoms such as altered sensation and speech difficulties.

possible contributing factors, complicated by the blockade, include:

  1. Viral Infections: Limited access to vaccines and preventative healthcare increases susceptibility to viral illnesses that can, in rare instances, lead to neurological complications.
  2. Nutritional Deficiencies: Widespread malnutrition, a direct result of the aid blockade, weakens the immune system and can impact nerve function. Vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins, are suspected to play a role.
  3. Environmental Toxins: The potential exposure to unidentified environmental toxins due to damaged infrastructure and limited sanitation is being investigated.
  4. Stress and Trauma: The chronic stress and psychological trauma experienced by the population in Gaza can contribute to neurological dysfunction.

The Impact of the Blockade on Healthcare Delivery

The Israeli blockade of Gaza has created a catastrophic healthcare crisis. Key challenges include:

shortage of Essential Medicines: Critical medications for neurological conditions, including anti-inflammatory drugs, nerve growth factors, and immunosuppressants, are in critically short supply.

Lack of Diagnostic Equipment: Access to essential diagnostic tools like MRI machines, CT scanners, and nerve conduction studies is severely limited, hindering accurate and timely diagnosis.

Limited Specialist Expertise: The blockade restricts the movement of medical personnel, preventing specialists in neurology and rehabilitation from entering Gaza and limiting opportunities for local doctors to receive advanced training.

Damaged Infrastructure: Repeated conflicts have damaged hospitals and clinics, reducing capacity and functionality. Power outages are frequent, disrupting essential medical services.

Restricted Movement of Patients: Patients requiring specialized care outside of gaza face significant obstacles in obtaining permits to travel, often delaying or preventing access to life-saving treatment.

Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges

Diagnosing the cause of this paralysis is proving exceptionally tough. Without access to advanced diagnostic tools and specialist consultation,doctors are relying on clinical assessment and limited laboratory tests.Treatment options are similarly constrained.

Symptomatic Management: Currently, treatment focuses primarily on managing symptoms, such as providing physical therapy and supportive care.

Limited Access to Immunotherapies: Potential immunotherapies, which could be beneficial in some cases, are unavailable due to import restrictions.

Rehabilitation Services: The lack of adequate rehabilitation facilities and trained personnel hinders the recovery process for paralyzed patients.

The Role of International Aid and Advocacy

Addressing this crisis requires urgent international intervention.

Lifting the Blockade: The immediate lifting of the Israeli blockade is crucial to allow the unrestricted flow of medical supplies, equipment, and personnel into Gaza.

Increased Humanitarian Aid: A significant increase in humanitarian aid is needed to address the widespread malnutrition and health vulnerabilities of the population.

Support for Local Healthcare Professionals: Providing training and resources to local doctors and healthcare workers is essential to strengthen the healthcare system’s capacity to respond to this and future health crises.

Self-reliant Investigation: An independent investigation into the cause of the paralysis is needed to identify risk factors and develop effective prevention strategies.

Real-World Examples & Case Studies (August 2025)

Reports from Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City indicate a disproportionate number of young adults presenting with the paralysis. One case,a 24-year-old male,initially diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (a rare autoimmune disorder),did not respond to standard treatment protocols,raising concerns about a different underlying cause. The lack of access to plasmapheresis (a treatment to remove harmful antibodies) further complicated his care. Doctors suspect a possible link to contaminated water sources,but conclusive evidence remains elusive due to limited testing capabilities.

Benefits of Addressing the Crisis

* reduced Morbidity and Mortality:

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