Meta’s new rules force ChatGPT to leave WhatsApp by early 2026

OpenAI has urged WhatsApp users to link their accounts before January 15, 2026, to preserve chat history, with the option to unlink phone numbers later, as conversations will not transfer automatically after the cutoff

OpenAI has officially confirmed that its popular AI chatbot, ChatGPT, will no longer be available on WhatsApp starting January 15, 2026, following Meta’s updated rules on third-party chatbots. The announcement was reflected in an updated FAQ on OpenAI’s website, where the company also reassured users that ChatGPT will continue to function on iOS, Android, and the web.

OpenAI has advised users to link their accounts to WhatsApp before the deadline to preserve chat history, noting that conversations will not transfer automatically after the cutoff date. “WhatsApp does not support chat exports, so we recommend linking your account soon to maintain your history,” the company said. Users also have the option to unlink their phone numbers from ChatGPT after connecting. Until now, WhatsApp users could interact with ChatGPT via the number 1-800-242-8478 to ask questions, search the web, generate images, or engage with the AI assistant.

Meta’s policy shift and its impact

The departure of ChatGPT follows Meta’s quiet update to its WhatsApp Business API policy, which effectively bans general-purpose AI chatbots on the platform. According to the revised rules, providers of AI or machine learning technologies—including large language models and generative AI assistants—are prohibited from accessing or using the WhatsApp Business Solution, directly or indirectly.

Meta has justified the change by citing the additional server load caused by third-party AI chatbots. However, the policy also ensures that Meta AI becomes the sole AI assistant on WhatsApp, consolidating control over AI interactions within its ecosystem. The move aligns with Meta’s broader strategy of integrating AI across its apps, including WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and its standalone AI app, where conversations can now influence personalized ads and content.

The transition marks a significant shift for users accustomed to third-party AI services on WhatsApp. While ChatGPT will remain accessible on other platforms, its departure underscores Meta’s growing control over AI capabilities within its applications and signals a more centralized approach to chatbot services moving forward.