Mark Zuckerberg Defends WhatsApp, Instagram Buyouts: Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is in the spotlight again, but this time, not for launching a new product. On Monday, he appeared in a major antitrust trial in the US to defend Meta’s purchase of WhatsApp and Instagram. The trial, led by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), accuses Meta of killing competition by buying its rising rivals instead of competing with them fairly.
Zuckerberg defended these deals, saying Meta didn’t try to kill competition but aimed to build better products. He insisted that buying Instagram was about camera tech and not just about social networking. The trial could have huge effects on the future of Instagram and WhatsApp, and even Meta’s hold on the social media world.
Key Facts of the Case:
- Zuckerberg testified at the FTC’s antitrust trial starting April 14.
- Meta is accused of “killer acquisitions” of WhatsApp and Instagram.
- FTC used old emails from Zuckerberg admitting Instagram was a growing threat.
- Meta argues they compete with apps like TikTok, YouTube, X, and iMessage.
- The trial could force Meta to sell off Instagram and WhatsApp.
Table of Contents
What Did Zuckerberg Say?
Zuckerberg told the court that Meta has always focused on helping people connect with friends and family. He explained that Facebook and Instagram let users discover news and updates from the world, not just socialize. While answering questions from the FTC lawyer, he said Facebook’s news feed was created in 2006 to help users stay closer to real friends.
He claimed Instagram was bought mainly because of its good camera technology, not to block its social network growth. He also mentioned that social media today is a crowded space, and Meta has strong rivals.
What is the FTC Saying?
The FTC strongly disagrees. They presented old emails from Zuckerberg where he said Instagram could become a serious issue for Facebook if it kept growing. One 2012 email suggested that instead of shutting Instagram down, Meta should just keep it running quietly while Facebook worked on its own features.
They accused Meta of doing the same with WhatsApp — buying it to prevent it from becoming a social platform or getting bought by a rival. FTC lawyers called this strategy a “killer acquisition,” saying Meta bought potential threats instead of facing them fairly in the market.
Why This Trial Matters
This case is one of the biggest antitrust trials against a tech giant in years. If the FTC wins, Meta might be forced to separate from Instagram and WhatsApp. These two platforms now have billions of users, and losing them could shake Meta’s position in the global market.
The FTC also pointed out that Meta’s dominance has made user experience worse, with more ads and unwanted features. They said Meta no longer had to work hard for user loyalty.
Meta’s Side of the Story
Meta’s lawyers said that buying Instagram and WhatsApp helped make them better for users. They stressed that the apps remain free and are constantly updated. They argued that TikTok, YouTube, and others give tough competition to Meta every day.
Meta also highlighted that after TikTok was temporarily banned in January 2025, usage of Facebook and Instagram spiked, proving the competitive pressure they face.
What Happens Next
This trial is expected to last at least eight weeks. More big names like former Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg and rival company executives are likely to testify. The case may redefine how tech companies are allowed to grow and expand in the future.
For now, Zuckerberg stands firm that Meta didn’t try to crush the competition but simply wanted to build better experiences for users.
Conclusion
As the legal drama unfolds in Washington, the world is watching how this could change the future of digital platforms. Whether Meta holds onto Instagram and WhatsApp, or has to let go, one thing is clear — the way Big Tech operates might be about to change forever.
FAQs
Why is Meta on trial?
Meta is being accused by the FTC of using its power to kill competition by buying Instagram and WhatsApp.
What did Mark Zuckerberg say in court?
He defended the deals, saying Meta wanted to improve products and had many competitors in the market.
What is the FTC trying to prove?
FTC wants to show that Meta bought rivals just to stop them from growing, which goes against antitrust laws.
What can happen if Meta loses?
Meta may be forced to sell Instagram and WhatsApp, affecting billions of users and its business model.
Who are Meta’s rivals?
Meta’s lawyers say rivals include TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, X, and iMessage.
