WhatsApp to Ban AI Chatbots Like ChatGPT and Perplexity Starting January 2026
A major update is coming to the WhatsApp Business API, as new rules will block all general-purpose AI chatbots starting January 15, 2026. This decision means services like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other AI assistants will no longer operate on the platform. OpenAI has already confirmed that ChatGPT will stop functioning on WhatsApp after this date to comply with the updated terms.
Since launching earlier this year, ChatGPT has attracted over 50 million users on WhatsApp who relied on it for learning, chatting, and content creation. However, this policy shift marks a significant change in how users interact with AI assistants through messaging apps. The updated API terms introduce a new section for “AI providers,” which includes large language models and general-purpose assistants. According to the new rule, AI systems cannot use WhatsApp Business if the chatbot itself is the primary service offered.
Why the Change Is Happening
The decision reportedly follows increased system strain caused by the growing popularity of chatbot-based services. As message traffic surged, maintaining infrastructure and support became more complex. Therefore, the updated policy focuses on keeping WhatsApp Business aligned with its original purpose—helping businesses communicate with customers efficiently rather than serving as a platform for conversational AI tools.
For users, this means ChatGPT will remain available on WhatsApp until the January deadline. After that, they can continue their conversations through the ChatGPT app on Android, iOS, the web, and ChatGPT Atlas for macOS. The standalone app offers additional features, such as voice conversations, file uploads, and enhanced research tools, making it a more robust experience overall.
Preparing for the Transition
To retain their chat history, users are encouraged to link their WhatsApp number with their ChatGPT account before the cutoff date. The process is straightforward: download the ChatGPT app, sign in, visit the 1-800-ChatGPT contact profile, and click the provided link to connect the account. Once linked, the user’s phone number will sync with their ChatGPT account, and existing WhatsApp conversations will appear in their chat history.
It’s important to complete this linking process early since WhatsApp does not support chat exports, and past messages won’t transfer automatically after January 15, 2026. This change also signals a broader shift in digital communication, as Meta continues to strengthen control over third-party integrations. Although it may add extra steps for users, it will likely push more people toward Meta’s native AI tools, which are now built into WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook.
