The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed an appeal Tuesday in its antitrust case against Meta. The lawsuit accused Meta of illegally maintaining a social networking monopoly. The FTC argued Meta strategically acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to eliminate emerging competitive threats.
Judge James E. Boasberg of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled against the FTC in November after a trial. The core of the FTC's argument was that Meta's acquisitions, completed over a decade ago, stifled innovation. Instagram, initially a photo-sharing app, and WhatsApp, a messaging service, are now integral parts of Meta's portfolio.
FTC spokesman Joe Simonson stated the agency believes Meta violated antitrust laws. He expressed confidence in the appeal process. Meta has not yet released a public statement.
This appeal marks a significant step in the government's broader effort to regulate major tech companies. The government recently secured antitrust victories against Google.
The appeal process will now move forward, with the FTC seeking to overturn the district court's decision. The appeals court will review the case and hear arguments from both sides. A ruling is expected sometime next year.
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