October 21, 2025 — OpenAI has announced that ChatGPT will no longer be available on WhatsApp after January 15, 2026, following recent changes to WhatsApp’s policies and terms of service.

Since launching on WhatsApp earlier this year, over 50 million users have used ChatGPT to chat, create, and learn directly within the popular messaging platform. OpenAI highlighted that the simplicity and familiarity of messaging made WhatsApp “a natural home for everyday creativity and curiosity.”

However, the company confirmed that a recent policy change from WhatsApp will make it impossible to continue operating ChatGPT within the platform.

“While we would have much preferred to continue serving you on WhatsApp, we are focused on making the transition as easy as possible,” OpenAI said in its announcement.

Transitioning to the ChatGPT App

OpenAI is encouraging WhatsApp users to transition to the ChatGPT app, available on iOS, Android, the web, and ChatGPT Atlas on macOS.

The standalone ChatGPT experience includes expanded capabilities such as:

• Voice conversations

• File uploads

• Advanced research tools

• Chat history and memory across devices

Users can also link their WhatsApp number to their ChatGPT account to retain their conversation history.

How to Keep Your Chat History

To preserve chat history and ensure a smooth transition, OpenAI recommends users link their WhatsApp and ChatGPT accounts before January 15, 2026.

Steps to link your account:

1. Download the ChatGPT app on Android, iOS, or desktop.

2. Create or sign in to a ChatGPT account.

3. In WhatsApp, open the 1-800-ChatGPT contact profile and tap the provided link to connect your account.

Once linked, your phone number will be associated with your ChatGPT account, and your past WhatsApp conversations will appear in your ChatGPT chat history.

OpenAI warns that WhatsApp conversations will not transfer automatically after the shutdown date, as WhatsApp does not support chat exports.

Source: OpenAI Announcement