Meta, the owner of Facebook, is set to release its new Threads app on Thursday, aiming to compete with Twitter. However, regulatory concerns will prevent its availability in the European Union, according to a source close to the company.
This app is viewed as Twitter’s most significant challenge since Elon Musk’s takeover caused chaos on the popular social media platform, especially among politicians and celebrities.
A source close to Meta revealed on Wednesday that the tech giant would postpone the release of Threads in the EU’s 27 countries. They explained that Meta seeks clarity on the Digital Markets Act (DMA), a groundbreaking law that will come into full force next year in Europe.
The DMA establishes strict rules for major internet companies operating in Europe. One of these regulations prohibits platforms from sharing data across different services and also restricts companies from diverting platform users to their own products.
Based on the description of Threads in US app stores, user personal data, such as contact and geolocation information, will be collected and used for advertising purposes.
Meta has previously faced challenges with EU rules due to its attempts to utilize data from WhatsApp to bolster Instagram and Facebook, actions that European regulators prohibited.
A representative from Ireland’s Data Protection Commission, responsible for monitoring Meta in Europe as the company’s EU headquarters are located in Ireland, stated that Meta confirmed the non-release of the app in Europe “at this point.”
When contacted by AFP, Meta did not provide an immediate comment.
On Tuesday, Meta, along with six other companies including Amazon and Apple, informed the EU that they meet the necessary criteria to fall under the new rules, effective next year.
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Deepak Sen is a tech enthusiast who covers the latest technological innovations, from AI to consumer gadgets. His articles provide readers with a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of technology.
