Meta news covering Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Threads, Reality Labs, metaverse developments, and Meta's social media platforms.
Meta suspended planned updates to its terms of service for Instagram and Facebook after facing global backlash over provisions allowing user website data scraping for AI training. Courts in Brazil and Norway issued preliminary injunctions blocking the terms, while the UK's Competition and Markets Authority opened a formal investigation into whether Meta was exploiting its dominant position.
Meta is rolling out a new feature called spaces to all users of its Muse AI assistant, allowing them to build customized app-like experiences within the chat interface. The update includes a specialized version of the Muse Wonder AI model and enables users to create tools like shopping hubs by describing their needs.
WhatsApp has begun testing an AI-driven photo expansion feature for iOS users, allowing them to extend image borders directly within the app. The tool, powered by Meta AI, is currently available to select users in the beta program and public app version.
Instagram has launched a desktop version of its Edits app for macOS, featuring a multi-track timeline and support for external AI agents via MCP. The update adds advanced editing tools, keyframes, custom font imports, and 4K export capabilities to compete with ByteDance's CapCut.
Delhi Police registered an FIR under Sections 67 and 67B of the IT Act on October 8 regarding child sexual abuse material on Meta's platforms. Approximately 10 links were flagged in a complaint, prompting the Special Cell to launch an investigation to verify the allegations following directives from the National Human Rights Commission.
Meta implemented a Founder Alignment Agreement requiring its stock to double repeatedly for CEO Mark Zuckerberg to receive additional non-voting Class C shares. This structure allows him to sell up to 20% of new shares immediately to cover costs from California's Proposition 40 billionaire tax, while preserving his controlling voting power.
Yahoo Finance analysis suggests Meta remains a hold despite Democratic congressional control and significant legal charges. The commentary argues that while antitrust risks and teen settlement costs pressure earnings, Meta's ad pricing power and massive user base justify its valuation against broader market headwinds.
WhatsApp is introducing a feature that lets users invite people without the app to events by sharing a viewable link. The update also launches an Events Home hub for managing RSVPs and reminders, aiming to compete with dedicated event platforms.
Meta Platforms President Dina Powell McCormick argues that midterm election results will complicate data center construction due to heightened local opposition, though she suggests challenges may be less severe than currently perceived. She attributes Democratic victories partly to anti-infrastructure sentiment reflected in campaign ads and exit polls.
Meta has acquired Conductor, an AI startup allowing engineers to manage multiple coding agents simultaneously. The move positions Meta in a competitive push to control developer infrastructure, mirroring rival OpenAI's recent acquisition announcements. Conductor CEO Charlie Holtz confirmed the deal, noting plans to integrate with Meta's Superintelligence Labs.