Coverage· Apple· Published Sep 8, 2026

WhatsApp is developing native support for third-party AI agents

WhatsApp is developing a feature that connects third-party AI agents to dedicated one-to-one chats; each account can support up to five agents, and some Android users reportedly have access.

Coverage

DNA Brief

Signal Summary

When a new bot is set up, WhatsApp generates an API key that users can enter into an AI agent platform to connect it to the chat. Users can customize an agent’s name and profile photo, while the agent can read only content shared in its own chat and cannot access other conversations, contacts, or media. These agent chats are not currently end-to-end encrypted.

Why It Matters

The feature would put third-party AI agents directly into WhatsApp’s messaging workflow, allowing them to act on user instructions while introducing a clear privacy limitation: agent chats do not currently have end-to-end encryption. Wider rollout timing also remains unspecified.

Evidence

Start with the primary evidence, then review supporting sources and context.

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Primary Evidence

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  • 9to5MacDocumentOriginal

    WhatsApp will soon let users chat with up to five third-party AI agents

    Marcus Mendes

    WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will let users connect third-party AI agents to the app, chat with them, and give them instructions to carry out tasks on their behalf. Here are the details. more...