Meta, the company behind Facebook, is now facing a legal battle that could have a massive impact on its future. A lawsuit filed by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is challenging the company’s past acquisitions, including its purchases of WhatsApp and Instagram, accusing Meta of using illegal means to dominate the market. If the court rules against Meta, the company could be forced to give up control of these widely-used platforms.
A Dominant Force in the 2010s
It’s hard to imagine, but in the early 2010s, Facebook was at its peak, reigning as the most-used social media platform globally. Mark Zuckerberg’s company was celebrating hitting a huge milestone—reaching its first billion users. However, even as Facebook grew, Zuckerberg saw a potential threat looming on the horizon: the rise of smartphones. These devices were everywhere—on the streets, in classrooms, and on public transportation.
While Facebook remained a dominant force on desktop computers, its mobile adaptation was lagging behind. The small screens and mobile-first internet were reshaping the way people connected online, and Facebook needed to catch up quickly. Instead of trying to innovate on its own, Zuckerberg chose to acquire companies that had already mastered the mobile-first transition. This strategy led to Meta’s purchase of WhatsApp and Instagram, both of which were already gaining popularity, particularly with mobile users.
Meta’s Legal Troubles: WhatsApp and Instagram Under Scrutiny
Fast forward almost fifteen years, and those once strategic acquisitions are now under intense legal scrutiny. The FTC, which has been fighting to curb what it calls Meta’s anti-competitive practices, is now seeking to unwind these acquisitions. The government body argues that Meta acquired its competitors in a way that harmed the competitive landscape and violated antitrust laws.
In a courtroom on April 14, 2025, Meta will defend its acquisitions. If the court sides with the FTC, the social media giant could be forced to divest or lose control of both WhatsApp and Instagram in the U.S. This legal challenge comes at a time when Meta’s market dominance is being questioned on multiple fronts, and the company could face significant financial consequences if it loses this battle.
The Future of Meta and Its Acquisitions
For Meta, losing control of WhatsApp and Instagram would be a major blow. These two platforms have become integral parts of daily life for billions of users around the world. Instagram, with its image-driven content, continues to be a major player in the world of social media influencers, businesses, and advertisers. WhatsApp remains one of the most popular messaging apps globally, particularly in regions like Europe, South America, and Asia.
For consumers, the potential separation of these platforms from Meta could mean changes in how the apps operate, how data is shared, and how advertisers interact with users. For businesses and advertisers, it could drastically alter how they reach their target audiences across these platforms.
Why Does This Matter to the Average User ?
While the outcome of this case may seem like a battle between big corporations, its impact could trickle down to everyday users. If Meta were to lose WhatsApp and Instagram, these platforms could either become independent companies or be acquired by other tech giants. The shift could bring new features, changes to how the apps operate, or even higher prices for ads and services on the platforms.
This case also highlights broader questions about big tech monopolies and the role of regulation in the tech industry. As Meta faces scrutiny over its market control, it’s a reminder of how important it is for consumers and regulators to stay vigilant about the influence that large corporations can have on both the digital landscape and our daily lives.
In the end, this legal battle will not only reshape Meta’s future but could set the stage for how tech companies operate in the years to come. For now, we wait and see how the courts will rule.
