WhatsApp Bans AI Chatbots from Utilizing Its Business API

Beginning January 15, 2026, AI firms will no longer be allowed to utilize WhatsApp as a chat interface for their models. This resolution arises as Meta, the parent organization of WhatsApp, revises its business API regulations to limit the use of the platform for general-purpose chatbot engagements.

In recent times, various AI companies, such as OpenAI and Perplexity, have facilitated user interactions with their models through WhatsApp. This approach has been especially appealing in areas where WhatsApp communication is immune to data charges, enabling users with constrained data plans to more readily access AI services. With WhatsApp having approximately 3 billion active users, the potential market for AI companies has been considerable.

Nonetheless, Meta has acknowledged the increasing trend of AI organizations employing its platform for direct chatbot conversations and has chosen to take action. The newly established terms clearly indicate that suppliers of AI technologies, including extensive language models and generative AI platforms, are barred from utilizing the WhatsApp Business Solution if their main purpose is to provide these technologies. This limitation does not extend to companies that use AI within their customer support processes on WhatsApp.

The precise language from the revised terms underscores that AI providers are prohibited from accessing or employing the WhatsApp Business Solution primarily for the purpose of delivering their technologies. OpenAI has already revealed that its WhatsApp contact will stop operating after the cutoff date, while Perplexity has yet to clarify its future intentions concerning WhatsApp.

This development signifies a notable transition in how AI companies can communicate with users on widely-used messaging platforms, potentially prompting them to explore other methods or venues for direct engagement with their models.

Apple Vision Pro (M5) is Set to Get Enhanced Developer Strap, Code, and Icon Functionalities

### Apple Vision Pro (M5) and Developer Strap Compatibility

The recently unveiled Apple Vision Pro (M5) brings thrilling enhancements, yet it also presents certain compatibility restrictions concerning the original Developer Strap. This accessory, equipped with a USB-C port aimed at enabling the creation of graphics-rich applications and games, might not completely support the new headset.

#### Developer Strap Overview

Upon the initial release of the Apple Vision Pro, Apple also rolled out the Developer Strap, priced at $299, which was made available solely to registered developers via the Apple Developer website. This strap was designed to take the place of the standard Right Audio Strap that comes with the Vision Pro, offering developers improved features for application development.

#### Compatibility Issues

Recent discoveries in the latest developer beta reveal that the original Developer Strap will not attain full compatibility with the Apple Vision Pro (M5). Code excerpts like “Limited Developer Strap Connected” and “The Developer Strap attached to Apple Vision Pro is not fully supported; functionality may be limited” indicate that developers might face limitations when utilizing the original strap with the updated model.

Moreover, the beta introduces a new asset featuring a revised developer strap icon, suggesting possible modifications or enhancements in the forthcoming iteration of the accessory.

#### Anticipated Release and Clarifications

Although the exact disparities between the original and the new Developer Straps remain uncertain, Apple is anticipated to offer additional clarification once the updated accessory is launched. The original Developer Strap debuted simultaneously with the inaugural Apple Vision Pro, and it is expected that sales of the new strap will restart on October 22, aligning with the release of the Apple Vision Pro (M5).

Apple has been approached for comments concerning the distinctions between the two straps, and updates will follow if a reply is received.

#### Conclusion

As the launch date for the Apple Vision Pro (M5) draws near, developers should brace for possible compatibility challenges with the original Developer Strap. The expected updates and insights from Apple will be vital for ensuring a seamless transition for developers focused on crafting new applications and games for the latest headset.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 Evaluation: One Month Later and the Essential Feature I Unearthed

# Apple Watch Ultra 3: A New User’s Journey

I’ve been using an Apple Watch Ultra 3 for just over a month now, and it’s my inaugural Ultra model. Here’s a summary of my experience thus far, including the one Ultra feature I can’t picture living without.

## Apple Watch Ultra 3 Highlights from a New Ultra Customer

Last month, I shared some initial observations after my first few days with the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Primarily, those observations focused on how Apple Watch Ultra has regained the ‘Ultra’ title after Series 10 had created the awkward circumstance of surpassing the Ultra line in various ways.

I also pointed out several significant enhancements I’ve been enjoying that are unique to Ultra 3:

– Always-on seconds for Modular Ultra
– Bigger display with narrower bezels than prior models
– Quicker charging

After a month of usage, the aforementioned highlights remain accurate. Most of Ultra 3’s additional upgrades haven’t notably affected me. I still haven’t embarked on an extravagant outdoor excursion that required the new satellite and 5G functionalities. Nor have I received a hypertension notification—thankfully. Still, I’m certainly pleased they are available.

The Ultra 3’s battery performance has been a major highlight. Although I primarily charge it daily, on the rare occasions I forget or lack the chance, it’s reassuring to know I can comfortably manage a second full day. However, my favorite Apple Watch Ultra 3 feature is something not exclusive to Ultra 3: it’s the Modular Ultra watch face.

After spending years using the standard ‘Modular’ face on my prior Apple Watch models, Modular Ultra has been the most significant enhancement in transitioning to ‘Ultra’ this year. In a way, it highlights what I would label the Ultra line’s unfair edge.

## Modular Ultra is My Main Motivator for Choosing Ultra in the Future

Even though Apple Watch Series 11 and Series 10 offer very “Ultra-like” screen dimensions in their 46mm versions, Modular Ultra is limited to the more premium Ultra line. Is there a technical reason for this restriction? No, it’s purely a software choice by Apple. To be honest, though, I find it challenging to criticize Apple for this decision.

Modular Ultra and the other Ultra-exclusive faces serve as excellent distinguishing features for the Ultra line. Since the watch face is the primary interface for Apple Watch, acquiring the ideal face for your requirements could itself make upgrading to an Ultra model worthwhile. I believe it has been for me.

There are numerous aspects I’ve appreciated about transitioning to Ultra, from the stunning design to extended battery life, Action Button, and a brighter display. However, the single most significant reason I’d struggle to revert to a ‘Series’ model in the future is not related to hardware. It’s the Modular Ultra face that permits me to display all the complications I require, along with a large, stunning digital clock, and seconds visible along the edge.

If you regularly change your watch faces, perhaps the Ultra-exclusive faces won’t be as impactful for you. But for me, unless Apple develops a compelling new watch face for its ‘Series’ models, I’ll find it tough to downgrade from the Ultra line.

Have you been using the Apple Watch Ultra 3, and if so, what are your favorite features? Share with us in the comments.

### Best Apple Watch Accessories

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Jon Prosser Misses Deadline, Apple Lawsuit Moving Forward Without His Legal Counsel

The US District Court for the Northern District of California has approved Apple’s motion to enter default against Jon Prosser in the lawsuit it initiated last July. Here’s what this entails.

### A Brief Summary

Earlier this year, YouTuber Jon Prosser released a few videos highlighting various features of what became the Liquid Design redesign launched in iOS 26.

In July, Apple initiated legal action against Prosser and another defendant named Michael Ramacciotti, charging them with misappropriating trade secrets and breaching the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act due to the leak.

Apple alleges that Ramacciotti accessed the Development iPhone of a former employee, Ethan Lipnik. Here’s Apple’s account of the timeline of the events:

As per Mr. Ramacciotti’s message, while at Mr. Lipnik’s residence, he utilized location tracking to ascertain periods when Mr. Lipnik would be away for a significant duration, obtained his passcode, and accessed his Development iPhone, which Mr. Lipnik had inadequately secured according to Apple’s standards. In the audio message, Mr. Ramacciotti connected via video call with Mr. Prosser and “displayed iOS” on the Development iPhone. He showcased several features and applications, revealing details about the unreleased iOS 19 operating system. Mr. Ramacciotti claims that Mr. Prosser devised the scheme and assured him he would “find a way for