WhatsApp announced a ban on third-party AI chatbots from January 15, 2026

WhatsApp has announced new changes to its terms of service that will ban the use of non-Meta AI chatbots on the app. So, what should you know about it?

No more third-party chatbots after 15 January 2026

For your information, this means that all third-party chatbots, including ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, will no longer be allowed to be used on WhatsApp after this change goes into effect. The effective date is set for January 15, 2026, which will also be the last day WhatsApp Business users can use ChatGPT, Copilot, or any other AI chatbot not developed by Meta.

Previously, OpenAI announced the official withdrawal of ChatGPT from WhatsApp, while Microsoft also confirmed that Copilot is no longer available in the app. However, there is a small exemption for businesses that use AI chatbots for customer service purposes.

Moreover, they are still allowed to operate if they adhere to certain guidelines. Meta also explained that ChatGPT users on WhatsApp can transfer their conversation history, but Copilot users will not have that option.

Additionally, this move marks a major shift in Meta's strategy as it now wants to fully control the use of large language models (LLMs) in the WhatsApp ecosystem and focus on its own AI chatbots.

Stay tuned to TechNave.com for more updates.