Meta to Face FTC Antitrust Trial Over Instagram, WhatsApp Acquisitions

A federal judge has ruled that Meta must stand trial for allegedly maintaining a social media monopoly through its purchases of Instagram and WhatsApp.

• The FTC's lawsuit claims Meta overpaid for Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014 to eliminate competition in the social media market.
• Judge James Boasberg denied Meta's request to dismiss the case, allowing the trial to proceed, though one allegation regarding developer access was dismissed.
• Meta argues that its acquisitions have been beneficial for consumers and that it faces competition from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and X.
• The case is part of a broader effort by the FTC and Department of Justice to address antitrust concerns with major tech companies, including Google, Amazon, and Apple.
• A trial date has not yet been set, but a virtual status conference is scheduled for November 25 to discuss the trial schedule.

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