# ChatGPT Returns to WhatsApp in Europe Thanks to EU Commission The European Commission's decision forces Meta to allow free access to third-party AI chatbots in WhatsApp. - **Source:** [GSMArena.com - Latest articles](https://brifing.si/source/ae58cd90-1e26-4445-9a9c-963b7954a50c) - **Published:** 2026-07-14 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/4ab8bc32-6cb1-497d-866e-01fc93b66986 ## European Commission's Decision The European Commission has mandated Meta to provide free access to third-party AI chatbots in WhatsApp. This decision overturns Meta's ban last November and its subsequent paywall in March. The ruling applies across the European Economic Area. ## ChatGPT on WhatsApp ChatGPT is now accessible on WhatsApp via the number 1-800-CHATGPT. Users can ask questions, upload images, send voice messages, and generate images directly within WhatsApp without needing to install the ChatGPT app. ## Meta's Previous Moves Meta banned third-party AI chatbots in WhatsApp last November and reintroduced them behind a paywall in March. The EU Commission's intervention has now made this access free again. ## Benefits for Users This decision simplifies access to powerful AI tools like ChatGPT directly through WhatsApp. Without the need to install additional apps, users can leverage all AI features, offering significant convenience, especially for mobile users. ## Ongoing EU Commission Review The EU Commission's investigation into this matter is still ongoing. However, Meta must maintain free access to third-party AI chatbots in WhatsApp until a final decision is made, highlighting the importance of competition rules in the digital market. ## Digital Market and Competition This development marks a significant step in preserving competition and consumer rights in the digital market. The EU Commission's decision aims to limit tech giants' market dominance, fostering a fairer competitive environment. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.gsmarena.com/chatgpt_is_back_in_whatsapp_in_europe_thanks_to_the_european_commission-news-73714.php — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._