Meta is changing the rules for WhatsApp. Starting January 15, 2026, the company will block third-party AI chatbots that act as standalone products. That means Microsoft Copilot and OpenAI’s ChatGPT will no longer be available inside WhatsApp after the deadline.
Both companies have confirmed the move. ChatGPT users will be able to link their accounts to WhatsApp so their chat history carries over. Copilot users won’t have that option, which could make the transition harder.
The new rules won’t affect customer service bots. Businesses can still use WhatsApp to answer questions and send updates. Meta is only targeting AI platforms that use WhatsApp as a way to distribute their chatbot products directly.
Meta says this is meant to help companies provide support, not to serve as a launchpad for rival AI assistants. The change also positions Meta’s own AI as the default option on WhatsApp.
Also Read: Meta to shut down Messenger desktop apps for Windows and Mac
Other chatbot providers, like Perplexity, are expected to leave the platform soon. By early next year, Meta AI will likely be the only chatbot available in WhatsApp.
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