OpenAI has officially brought ChatGPT to WhatsApp, making it the first time the AI chatbot is available on the platform — and it’s entirely free to use. This new feature allows users to converse with ChatGPT just like they would with a human or Meta's built-in AI on the messaging app.

This launch is part of OpenAI’s “12 Days of OpenAI” event, where the company teased a mix of major and minor announcements, with today’s update being one of the more significant ones.

From now on, users worldwide can add the number 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) to their WhatsApp contacts and start chatting with the AI. This move is especially beneficial for users with limited data access, as WhatsApp allows for messaging without requiring high-speed internet.

WhatsApp, with over 2.7 billion active users, is one of the most popular messaging platforms globally, and OpenAI’s integration of ChatGPT into it is a strategic move as the platform continues to grow, particularly with the rise of MetaAI.

In the U.S., users can also engage in voice conversations with ChatGPT, thanks to the underlying Realtime API technology.

How Does It Work?

In areas with limited access to high-speed internet, people often rely on apps like WhatsApp, which don’t demand a constant connection. ChatGPT on WhatsApp allows users to ask questions or have casual conversations as if speaking to a human. The feature uses the GPT-4o-mini model, which is the same one found in the free version of ChatGPT.

OpenAI suggests using it for tasks like creative writing, brainstorming, getting recommendations for recipes or travel ideas, or chatting about general topics such as news, hobbies, and trivia.

However, OpenAI has noted that this is an experimental release, meaning there could be usage limits or reduced availability depending on demand. For users seeking a more enhanced experience with additional tools and features, it’s recommended to continue using ChatGPT directly through their account.