OpenAI’s ChatGPT service on WhatsApp ended on Thursday, January 15, marking the exit of the AI chatbot from the Meta-owned messaging platform. The shutdown followed a deadline set in October 2025, when the platform announced an updated policy to restrict all large language model based chatbots.
The messaging company had cited increased pressure on servers as the reason for the move. However, there has been speculation that the decision was also linked to lower usage of the platform’s in-house chatbot, Meta AI.
In a support update linked to the ChatGPT phone number, OpenAI said, “On Jan 15, 2026, ChatGPT will no longer be available on WhatsApp. ChatGPT remains available on iOS, Android, and the web.” The company also advised users to link their accounts if they want to keep their conversation history, as chats will not transfer otherwise.
The shutdown was independently verified by staff at a tech publication. Messages sent to ChatGPT on WhatsApp now return a notice stating that the service is no longer available and asking users to download the app to continue using it. Other access points, including the website and the Mac desktop app, continue to function normally.
ChatGPT is not the only AI chatbot affected. Other services such as Perplexity and Microsoft’s Copilot, which are also available on WhatsApp, are expected to face a similar outcome under the same policy framework.
The move follows an update to WhatsApp’s Business application programming interface policy, which restricts large language model AI bots and other “machine learning technologies” from accessing WhatsApp Business. Meta retains the authority to decide what qualifies as an AI chatbot. “We may terminate your account and revoke your access if we reasonably determine that you have breached these restrictions,” the policy states.
OpenAI had first launched ChatGPT on WhatsApp in December 2024 with a dedicated phone number, 1-800-CHATGPT or 1-800-242-8478. Over time, the company added features such as voice and image input support, followed by AI-powered image generation.
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