Meta, in preparation for the Digital Markets Act (DMA) set to take effect in March, is introducing changes for users in the EU. These changes offer individuals more control over the sharing of their information across Meta platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Users of Facebook Messenger can choose to continue using it with their Facebook accounts or create standalone Messenger accounts, providing more flexibility. Similar choices are extended to users of Facebook Marketplace and gamers, although those opting out of linking Facebook data to games may lose access to multiplayer features and personalized suggestions.
These changes align with the DMA, designed to address the dominance of big tech firms in the EU and enhance competition. The DMA mandates interoperability for messaging apps and gives users the ability to choose alternative in-app payment options and third-party app stores. While Google has also announced plans to allow users to opt out of data sharing across various services, Meta’s move is notable in providing users with choices about their information sharing. However, Meta’s decision to limit certain features for users who opt out of targeted ads, unless they subscribe to a paid service, is being challenged by European consumer organizations for fairness concerns.
As the DMA approaches, Meta is positioning itself to comply with regulations, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring products in the EU adhere to the DMA and deliver value to users. The changes underscore a broader trend among major tech companies to provide users with more control over their data and privacy settings, reflecting a response to increased regulatory scrutiny and consumer demands for greater transparency and choice.
