WhatsApp will soon update its terms of use, affecting everyone who has been using external artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots in the app. Under the new rules, Meta will no longer allow any AI solutions that were not developed by the company itself. As a result, third-party chatbots will be banned from the platform.
When do the changes take effect?
The changes will come into force on January 15, 2026. This will be the last day when WhatsApp Business customers can use ChatGPT, Copilot, or any other bots that are not controlled by Meta. After this date, such integrations will be considered a violation of the terms of service.
This decision marks a clear change in direction, as until now WhatsApp has been one of the most convenient places to access different AI assistants without needing separate apps. Meta now aims to ensure that all AI experiences within WhatsApp are built only through its own products. For users, this means fewer choices but more unified control.
What exactly do the new rules prohibit?
The main change is straightforward: it will no longer be permitted to use third-party large language model chatbots on WhatsApp. Users will not be able to add or use bots owned by other companies. In essence, the app will become a closed AI ecosystem.
The ban applies both to regular users and to business accounts. Companies that have been communicating with customers through ChatGPT or Copilot will have to look for other solutions. The only remaining option will be AI tools officially provided by Meta.
Why is this happening now?
OpenAI has already announced its withdrawal from WhatsApp, and Microsoft has confirmed that Copilot will stop working in the app. These signals showed that the rule changes were planned in advance. Mid-January therefore becomes a clear deadline for all non-Meta bots.
Such decisions often reflect a desire to control the user experience and data flows within a single system. Meta clearly wants its own AI products to be the primary choice in the WhatsApp environment. This also reduces the visibility of competitors on one of the largest messaging platforms.
An exception for customer support
There is a small exception for businesses that use AI bots for customer service. If a bot functions as a support tool for handling queries, it will still be allowed. However, this exception applies only to specific customer support functions.
In other words, free use of third-party bots for general conversations or personal tasks will not be allowed. Businesses will need to clearly demonstrate that their AI solutions are dedicated to customer service. Otherwise, the integration will be considered prohibited.
What does migration mean for users?
Users of ChatGPT will be given the option to transfer their chat history from WhatsApp. This is important for those who have used the bot for a long time and accumulated many conversations. Their data will not be lost but will move to another environment.
For Copilot users, no such option is planned. Their chat history will remain inside WhatsApp and will no longer be accessible after the ban takes effect. This may be disappointing for those who used the bot as a constant assistant.
What comes next?
After January 15, 2026, the AI space within WhatsApp will be shaped only by Meta solutions. Users are likely to see more official AI features but fewer alternatives. The market in this area will become more centralized.
This step will change user habits and force both individuals and businesses to reconsider where they rely on AI assistants. Some will move to other platforms, while others will adapt to the Meta ecosystem. One thing is clear: the era of WhatsApp as a universal space for third-party bots is coming to an end.
