WhatsApp Testing Third-Party AI Agent Feature for iPhone Users

WhatsApp is piloting a third-party AI agent feature on Apple's iOS platform, marking the messaging giant's latest push into artificial intelligence integration. The test phase enables users to create and manage multiple AI agents within the application, with each account able to set up to five distinct agents.

The new functionality allows these AI agents to connect to external services through application programming interfaces (APIs), enabling a broader ecosystem of tools and services to be accessed directly within WhatsApp's messaging interface. This integration would potentially permit users to perform various tasks without leaving the application, streamlining workflows for both personal and professional use.

The feature represents WhatsApp's broader strategy to evolve beyond its core messaging functionality and compete with other platforms offering AI-powered services. By enabling third-party developers to create custom agents, the platform could establish itself as a hub for AI-assisted productivity and information access.

While the feature is currently restricted to iOS beta testing, the company has not disclosed timelines for wider rollout or whether Android users will receive similar functionality. The move aligns with recent industry trends as major technology companies race to integrate AI capabilities into their most-used platforms and services.