WhatsApp’s new Meta AI feature is sparking controversy as users notice it can’t be removed from the app, despite being described as “optional.” While Meta says the tool is meant to enhance the user experience, many are concerned about privacy and data use.
WhatsApp’s New ‘Optional’ AI Tool Raises Privacy Concerns
WhatsApp has recently introduced an AI feature powered by Meta’s technology, designed to assist users directly within the messaging app. Although the company emphasizes that the feature is “entirely optional,” users quickly discovered that the AI cannot actually be removed from the platform — a point that has led to frustration and criticism.
Background Context
The integration of AI into everyday digital tools is becoming more common, with major tech companies like Meta and Microsoft experimenting with built-in AI assistants. However, these features often raise concerns over user control and privacy, especially when users feel they have no choice in enabling or disabling them.
A Closer Look at WhatsApp’s AI Feature
On WhatsApp, users can spot the new Meta AI feature by a colorful blue, pink, and green circle that now appears on the Chats screen. Tapping on it opens a chatbot that can answer questions, offer information, and even suggest new ideas. While Meta claims the feature is optional, it remains a permanent part of the app, similar to other elements like “Channels” and “Status.”
This rollout follows a similar situation with Microsoft’s Recall feature, which faced public backlash for being an always-on tool. In response, Microsoft eventually made it possible for users to disable Recall — something WhatsApp users are now hoping for with Meta AI.
In a statement to the BBC, WhatsApp said, “We believe offering people these options is beneficial, and we continually listen to user feedback.”
Limited Availability for Now
If you don’t see the blue circle yet, it could be because Meta is rolling out the feature gradually across different regions. The company notes that access may vary even within the same country.
Alongside the blue circle, users will also notice a new search bar prompting them to “Ask Meta AI or Search,” a feature now visible on Facebook Messenger and Instagram as well.
The chatbot is powered by Meta’s large language model, Llama 4. Before users interact with it, WhatsApp displays a disclaimer explaining that while the AI is available to use, it remains an optional tool.
Testing the Feature
A quick test of Meta AI by asking about Glasgow’s weather yielded fast and detailed results, including temperature, rain forecasts, wind, and humidity. However, accuracy issues surfaced when one of the links provided pointed to weather details for Charing Cross in London, not Glasgow, highlighting some flaws in the AI’s information sourcing.
Public Reaction: Frustration and Criticism
Many users across platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Bluesky, and Reddit have voiced displeasure at the inability to disable the AI. Columnist Polly Hudson also criticized the feature in The Guardian, echoing widespread concerns about user autonomy.
Dr. Kris Shrishak, an AI and privacy expert, was even more critical, accusing Meta of leveraging its dominant position to “use people as test subjects for AI experiments.” He raised alarms about privacy risks, suggesting that Meta’s AI models inherently violate user privacy, largely due to data collection practices.
Concerns have also been amplified by a report from The Atlantic, which alleged that Meta may have trained its Llama models using millions of pirated books and research papers accessed via LibGen, a shadow library. Multiple authors have since taken legal action against Meta, claiming unauthorized use of their works.
Meta has declined to comment on the specifics of the Atlantic investigation.
Privacy and Data Use: What You Need to Know
Upon first use of Meta AI, WhatsApp informs users that the chatbot can only read the messages shared directly with it. The company stresses that all other personal chats remain protected by end-to-end encryption.
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has said it will closely monitor how Meta AI uses personal data on WhatsApp. It emphasized that companies must handle users’ information responsibly and comply with data protection laws, especially when dealing with children’s data.
What Users Should Keep in Mind
Dr. Shrishak warns users that when engaging with Meta AI, they are effectively sharing information with Meta itself, not just a private chatbot. WhatsApp also advises users to be cautious about what they share, particularly avoiding sending sensitive or private information that they wouldn’t want to be stored or used.
Source: BBC
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