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

WhatsApp is developing a feature that will allow users to connect up to five third-party AI agents to the messaging app. This new functionality will enable users to chat with these AI agents and provide instructions for them to carry out tasks on their behalf. The platform is currently testing the feature with a select group of Android users, with plans to roll it out to a wider audience soon.

When users set up an agent, WhatsApp generates an API key that can be used to connect the agent to a dedicated chat within the app. Users can then communicate with the agent within this chat, sending messages and receiving responses. However, it is important to note that the agent can only read what the user shares in the chat and cannot access other conversations, contacts, or media.

Additionally, WhatsApp has stated that the responses from these AI agents may not always be accurate, and users should verify any information provided by the agents. Currently, users cannot add the AI agents to group chats or communities. Also, chats with third-party agents are not end-to-end encrypted.