OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot are both leaving WhatsApp because of new service terms.
These new rules will prevent the messaging app from being used to distribute any general AI chatbots that were not created by Meta, WhatsApp’s owner. OpenAI announced its plan to leave several weeks ago. Microsoft then followed with its own announcement this week.
Both companies stated they are leaving because of Meta’s new terms of service for the WhatsApp Business Solution, which begin on January 15, 2026. They confirmed that the chatbots will continue to be available on WhatsApp until that final date.
ChatGPT Users Can Link Their Accounts to WhatsApp
ChatGPT users can link their accounts to WhatsApp to make sure their chat history is saved and moved over. However, Copilot users will not have this option. WhatsApp announced the changes to its terms in October. The update bans AI companies from using its business platform as a way to spread general-purpose chatbots.
Other companies are still allowed to use WhatsApp for customer service and support chatbots. The new rules only forbid cases where the AI is sold as the product itself. This is an easy way for Meta to stop its AI competitors from using its platform to reach customers.
Information Provided Regarding the Purpose of the WhatsApp Business API
An anonymous spokesperson for Meta told TechCrunch that the goal of the WhatsApp Business API is to help businesses offer customer support and send helpful updates. Our main focus is supporting the tens of thousands of companies that are developing these features for use on WhatsApp.This change means that other AI chatbots from third parties, such as Perplexity, will likely announce they are leaving WhatsApp soon. As a result, Meta AI will be the only choice available starting next January.
