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• AUTHOR: codevision AI engine
• TechCrunch AI

Microsoft’s AI chatbot Copilot will exit WhatsApp on January 15, forcing users to switch to the company’s mobile apps or web platform. The move aligns with WhatsApp’s updated policies restricting general-purpose chatbots from using its Business API. This shift impacts businesses relying on WhatsApp for AI-driven customer service, as the platform will no longer host third-party chatbots. OpenAI had previously announced its own WhatsApp integration shutdown, highlighting broader industry changes. Users are advised to export chat history before the deadline since data won’t be transferred to Microsoft’s systems.

Key facts

• Copilot’s WhatsApp availability ends on January 15, requiring users to migrate to Microsoft’s apps or web interface.
• WhatsApp’s policy changes prohibit general-purpose AI chatbots from using its Business API, prompting Microsoft’s exit.
• The decision affects companies like OpenAI and Perplexity, which previously used WhatsApp for AI customer service.
• OpenAI had already announced its WhatsApp integration shutdown, signaling industry-wide shifts in AI deployment strategies.
• Chat history on WhatsApp won’t be preserved during the transition, urging users to export data before the deadline.