WhatsApp defends 'optional' AI tool that cannot be turned off

WhatsApp has recently introduced a new feature called Meta AI, which is designed to assist users by answering their questions. However, this feature has sparked a mix of reactions among users, as WhatsApp claims that it is 'entirely optional,' yet many users are frustrated because they cannot remove it from the app. The Meta AI logo, which is a blue circle adorned with pink and green colors, can be found in the bottom right corner of the Chats screen. When users interact with this logo, a chatbot opens up, ready to provide answers to various inquiries. While some users appreciate the convenience of having an AI assistant, others find its presence intrusive. WhatsApp has stated that they are committed to listening to user feedback and providing options that enhance the user experience. This announcement coincides with another update from Meta regarding Instagram, where they are implementing measures to identify accounts belonging to teenagers who have misrepresented their ages on the platform. If you are unable to see the new blue circle, it may be due to the fact that the feature is being gradually rolled out in different countries. Meta has advised that it might not be available to everyone just yet, even if some users in the same country have access to it. In addition to the blue circle, there is a search bar at the top of the screen that invites users to 'Ask Meta AI or Search. ' This feature is not exclusive to WhatsApp; it is also available on Facebook Messenger and Instagram, both of which are owned by Meta. The AI chatbot operates using a system known as Llama 4, which is one of the large language models developed by Meta. Before users can start asking questions, they are greeted with a message from Meta explaining that this AI tool is 'optional. ' According to Meta's website, the AI can answer questions, provide educational content, or help users brainstorm new ideas. I decided to test the feature by asking about the weather in Glasgow, and I was impressed by the quick response. The AI provided a detailed weather report, including temperature, chance of rain, wind speed, and humidity levels. It even included two links for further information, but one of the links led to irrelevant weather details for a location in London instead of Glasgow. The reception of this new feature in Europe has not been entirely positive. Many users have taken to social media platforms like X, Bluesky, and Reddit to express their dissatisfaction. Notably, Guardian columnist Polly Hudson has voiced her concerns about the feature. Dr. Kris Shrishak, an expert in AI and privacy, has also criticized Meta for what he perceives as the exploitation of users as test subjects for their AI technology. He stated, 'No one should be forced to use AI,' highlighting the ethical implications of such features. Dr. Shrishak further pointed out that Meta's AI models may violate privacy rights, as they rely on personal data and have been accused of using pirated books for training purposes. An investigation has revealed that Meta may have accessed millions of pirated books and research papers through a platform called Library Genesis to train its Llama AI. In response to these concerns, author groups across the UK and globally are organizing campaigns to urge governments to take action against Meta's practices. A spokesperson for Meta declined to comment on the investigation. When users first engage with Meta AI in WhatsApp, they are informed that the chatbot 'can only read messages people share with it. ' The message reassures users that Meta cannot access any other messages in their personal chats, as these messages are protected by end-to-end encryption. The Information Commissioner's Office has stated that they will continue to monitor how Meta AI utilizes personal data within WhatsApp. They emphasized the importance of trust in the responsible use of personal information for AI innovation. Organizations that wish to use personal data for training or operating generative AI models must comply with data protection regulations, particularly when it comes to processing children's data. Dr. Shrishak advises users to exercise caution when using this feature. He noted, 'When you send messages to your friend, end-to-end encryption will not be affected. ' However, he reminded users that when they communicate with Meta AI, one of the ends of the conversation is Meta, not their friend. The tech giant also encourages users to be mindful of the information they share, stating, 'Don't share information, including sensitive topics, about others or yourself that you don't want the AI to retain and use.