How Apple, Google and Microsoft's 'European problem' is now WhatsApp's also

Apple, Google and Microsoft share one common problem in Europe and it is their Size. The same problem or tough challenges in Europe now seems set to haunt Facebook-owned WhatsApp. Reason: The instant messaging platform WhatsApp has surpassed a key user threshold outlined in the European Union’s tech regulations, requiring it to take greater action against illegal and harmful online content. The messaging service, owned by Meta Platforms, disclosed in a February 14 filing that it averaged 46.8 million monthly active users in the EU over the six-month period ending December 2024—exceeding the 45 million user benchmark set by the Digital Services Act (DSA).

According to a report by news agency Reuters, European Commission spokesperson, Thomas Regnier, confirmed the milestone, stating, "WhatsApp has published user numbers above the threshold for designation as a Very Large Online Platform under the Digital Services Act."

Tough fines under EU's DSA

With this classification, WhatsApp now has four months to comply with stricter regulations under the DSA. These include identifying and assessing risks related to illegal content, fundamental rights, public security, and child protection. Companies that fail to meet these requirements could face fines of up to 6% of their global annual revenue.

Meta has ‘Donald Trump warning’ for EU on WhatsApp and Instagram

Meta’s other major platforms, Facebook and Instagram, are already subject to these regulations. Meanwhile, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Meta's global policy director Joel Kaplan have been vocal critics of the EU’s tech policies, even seeking backing from former US President Donald Trump.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Kaplan said Meta will not hesitate to seek the US President Trump's intervention if the European Union unfairly targets the company with its digital regulations. Kaplan emphasized Meta's commitment to fighting misinformation while acknowledging differing perspectives on what constitutes false information. The company has introduced Community Notes to enable user-driven fact-checking across its platforms.

Meta has already faced over €2 billion in EU penalties for violating antitrust and data protection rules, and is currently under investigation for potential breaches of the Digital Services Act regarding minor protection.

Apple removes hundreds of apps in EU, reason: DSA

Earlier this week, Apple removed the apps that have not so far complied with the trader requirement in the European Union from the App Store. The company said that the apps that have been removed will not be allowed back in the ‌App Store‌ until trader status is provided and verified by Apple.



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