Meta will disable WhatsApp access to OpenAI's ChatGPT service on Jan. 15, 2026, affecting 50 million global users who relied on the 1-800-ChatGPT feature for simple calls and messages. OpenAI announced the shutdown through a blog post, attributing the change to Meta's revised policies. The company urged users to download the ChatGPT app and link their WhatsApp accounts to preserve conversation history.
Meta has intensified promotion of its Llama-based Meta AI across WhatsApp in recent months, placing the tool within the app's search bar. Industry observers suggest Meta may view ChatGPT's popularity on its platform as competition for its artificial intelligence offerings. OpenAI recently expanded its product lineup by releasing ChatGPT Atlas, a dedicated browser currently available on macOS with plans to launch on Windows, iOS, and Android platforms.
