WhatsApp Supports Meta AI Amid Privacy Backlash

WhatsApp has endorsed the integration of Meta AI into its platform, despite rising privacy concerns among users and regulators. The AI feature, represented by a persistent blue-and-purple icon, is now embedded in WhatsApp across various regions, including Europe, Australia, India, and South Africa. While Meta describes the tool as “optional,” users cannot remove the icon from the interface, though they can delete conversations with the AI.

Meta’s AI assistant on WhatsApp, promoted as optional, has sparked backlash as users report it appears without consent and can’t be disabled. Critics argue the rollout compromises user autonomy, lacks transparency, and may involve improperly sourced training data. Despite Meta’s reassurances about chat privacy, the assistant’s persistent presence has fueled calls for stricter regulation and user rights, highlighting the tension between innovation and privacy protection