After ChatGPT, Microsoft’s Copilot will also leave WhatsApp next month

Microsoft has revealed that its Copilot AI chatbot will cease operations on WhatsApp starting January 15, 2026. This decision follows a similar announcement from OpenAI, confirming that ChatGPT would also exit the platform next month. The change comes in response to updated policies from Meta, which now restricts the use of general-purpose AI chatbots on WhatsApp, allowing only its own Meta AI to remain. Since its introduction to WhatsApp in late 2024, Copilot has made significant strides, and Microsoft has expressed pride in the value it has provided users. However, the company has clarified that Copilot's departure is necessitated by WhatsApp's new policy, which effectively bars all large language model (LLM) chatbots from January 15. In a blog post, Microsoft assured users that they are working diligently to facilitate a seamless transition, enabling continued access to Copilot across mobile, web, and PC platforms. However, it’s worth noting that conversations held with Copilot on WhatsApp are currently unauthenticated, meaning users won't be able to carry over their chat histories to other platforms. Microsoft has advised users who wish to keep their chat records to utilize WhatsApp's export features before the January deadline. Meta has indicated this policy shift is aimed at managing server load and has explicitly prohibited third-party AI service providers from utilizing the WhatsApp Business Solution. The updated policy states, 'AI Providers are strictly prohibited from accessing or using the WhatsApp Business Solution, whether directly or indirectly.' Consequently, Meta's AI will be the sole AI chatbot available on the platform, which may serve to bolster its competitive edge. Additionally, Meta has announced plans to leverage conversations with its AI for targeted advertising and personalized content, suggesting that increased traffic to Meta AI could translate into greater advertising revenue for WhatsApp.