Thanks to the European Commission's mandatory requirements, WhatsApp users in the European Economic Area (EEA) can once again use the ChatGPT chatbot for free from now on. Previously, Meta had banned third-party AI chatbots on the WhatsApp platform in November last year, and adjusted its strategy in March this year to only allow access to such services through paid methods.
In response to this behavior, the European Commission issued an announcement last month requiring Meta to provide users with free third-party AI chatbot access services in the European Economic Area.
Currently, European users do not need to download the independent ChatGPT application. They only need to add the phone number "1-800-CHATGPT" in WhatsApp to interact with ChatGPT directly through the dialog box. This feature covers a wide range of interactive forms, and users can ask questions, upload pictures, send voice messages, and generate images. The entire operation process can be completed within the WhatsApp application.
It is reported that the European Commission’s investigation procedures on this matter are still ongoing. Meta must keep third-party AI chatbots free of charge in WhatsApp pending a final ruling from regulators.