Meta is shaking up the AI chatbot space once again. Starting January 15, 2026, both ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot will officially leave WhatsApp, following major policy changes by the platform’s parent company, Meta.
According to a new update in WhatsApp Business Solution Terms of Service, third-party AI apps like ChatGPT and Copilot will no longer be allowed to use WhatsApp’s API for chatbot interactions. This means users who have relied on these intelligent AI assistants inside WhatsApp will no longer be able to access them — leaving Meta AI as the only available chatbot integrated into the app.
What’s Changing on WhatsApp?
Meta clarified that the WhatsApp Business API is meant strictly for customer service bots and business communication, not for standalone AI chatbot platforms. As a result, services where the chatbot is the product — such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and possibly Perplexity AI — will be banned from offering their chat features within WhatsApp.
Users can continue chatting with these bots until the policy takes effect in early 2026, but after that, the only AI assistant you’ll find inside WhatsApp will be Meta AI.
Why Are Users Upset?
Meta AI has received mixed reviews since its introduction. Many users on Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) described it as “unhelpful” or “a downgrade compared to ChatGPT.”
With the upcoming ban pushing users toward Meta’s built-in assistant, frustration is expected to grow. Unlike other bots, Meta AI also connects with Meta’s ad systems, meaning your WhatsApp chats could influence the ads you see on Facebook and Instagram.
Industry Impact and What’s Next
This change could reshape the AI chatbot market within messaging apps. While ChatGPT and Copilot remain top global AI tools for productivity and search, losing their presence on WhatsApp could push users toward alternative platforms like Telegram or Apple Intelligence.
Meta’s decision highlights how tightly integrated company ecosystems are becoming — controlling not just social media, but also the AI experiences users have within messaging apps.
Until then, both ChatGPT and Copilot will remain active on WhatsApp throughout 2025. But unless Meta reverses course, it’s clear: from 2026, Meta AI will be your only chatbot companion on WhatsApp.
