This move allows the Meta-owned messaging platform’s network of 2.7 billion users to interact with the AI chatbot. WhatsApp’s user base is expected to surpass 3 billion next year.
The integration, the tenth announcement of the “12 Days of OpenAI” event, enables users worldwide to access the service by adding 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) as a WhatsApp contact. It specifically targets regions with limited data connectivity, where WhatsApp serves as a primary communication tool requiring minimal bandwidth.
Running on the GPT-4o-mini model used in ChatGPT’s free version, the service supports a range of applications including creative writing assistance, brainstorming sessions, personalized recommendations for recipes and travel, and general discussions about news, hobbies, or trivia.
US users gain additional functionality with voice conversation capabilities through the Realtime API.
OpenAI emphasizes this is an experimental release with potential rate limits and availability restrictions based on demand. The company recommends existing users continue using the main ChatGPT platform for full functionality, including access to more tools, higher usage limits, and enhanced personalization options.
The integration marks a huge leap in democratizing AI access globally, particularly in regions with limited internet infrastructure. The move also puts OpenA in direct competition with Meta’s own AI offerings on the WhatsApp platform, potentially reshaping how users interact with AI assistants in daily communication.
This launch marks OpenAI’s tenth announcement in their holiday event series, which has included major updates like the company rolling out ChatGPT’s search functionality beyond paid users.
Watch the full feature announcement below:
