End of ChatGPT On WhatsApp: OpenAI Confirms January 2026 Deadline

If you’ve been chatting with ChatGPT on WhatsApp, that experience won’t last much longer. OpenAI has officially confirmed that ChatGPT will no longer be available on WhatsApp starting January 15, 2026. The update comes just a few days after Meta introduced new rules for WhatsApp’s business API, effectively banning third-party AI chatbots on the platform. Also Read: How ChatGPT Can Help You Learn A New Language

OpenAI shared the announcement through its FAQ page, noting that ChatGPT will continue to be available on iOS, Android, and the web. Users who have used the chatbot on WhatsApp are advised to link their accounts soon to save their chat history, since WhatsApp doesn’t support exporting conversations. Also Read: OpenAI Confirms Adult-Only ChatGPT With Custom Personalities And Erotic Conversations

Until now, WhatsApp users could chat with ChatGPT by messaging a dedicated number to ask questions, generate content, or simply have conversations with the AI assistant. However, this integration relied on WhatsApp’s business infrastructure – the same channel now being restricted. OpenAI has also clarified that users can unlink their phone numbers from ChatGPT after connecting their accounts if they wish to do so.

Why ChatGPT Is Leaving WhatsApp

The decision traces back to Meta’s updated WhatsApp Business API policy, which now bans general-purpose AI chatbots from using its systems. The new rule applies to all major AI developers – including OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Perplexity AI, Luzia, and Poke – that have been offering conversational assistants on WhatsApp.

Meta says the move is aimed at reducing the server load and keeping WhatsApp’s business tools focused on enterprise use cases like customer support and verifications. But there’s also a strategic angle – with this policy, Meta AI will become the only general-purpose chatbot allowed on WhatsApp.

This change signals the end of WhatsApp as an open platform for third-party AI tools. For users, it means fewer chatbot options – and for developers, it’s a major shift in how they’ll reach people on messaging apps. As the January 2026 deadline approaches, ChatGPT and other AI assistants will have to move to alternative channels.