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WhatsApp defends the introduction of Meta AI in the App
Credit: Shutterstock: Herigki Tu
Generative AI is now a reality in WhatsApp. The outcry over privacy and security has been rapid.
WhatsApp, however, has made it clear that private messages sent to friends and family will not be allowed. Meta has confirmed that chatting with an AI does not connect personal WhatsApp information to Facebook, Instagram, and any other Meta apps. While they accept that the ‘optional’ AI tool cannot be turned off, it can simply be ignored.
What is Meta AI?
They liken the ever-present distinctive Meta AI logo, with its blue circle with pink and green splashes, to other features with permanent options, such as ‘channels’ and ‘status’. Meta AI’s permanent presence is a service offered by Meta through WhatsApp that answers questions, teaches something new, and helps users come up new ideas.
Further, they warn that only data sent directly to Meta will be used for accurate responses or improving Meta’s AI models. They are also ensuring that AI chats are visually distinguishable from other messages and conversations.
They remind users that only send Meta messages with information they want it to have. Meta confirms users can delete their interactions with Meta AI and that Meta is trained to ensure that information such as names shared is not shown in other chats.
Meta AI on WhatsApp sparks strong response
This has not appeased users who have expressed their frustration over the AI functionality in the App. Polly Hudson, for example, summarized the mood in an article published by the Guardian: “There’s five stages of grief but only two of them when you discover the Meta AI circle that appears on your WhatsApp screen.” Fear, then anger.”
Dr Kris Shrishak was also very critical, accusing Meta of “exploiting their existing market” as well as “using people to test AI”.
He told the BBC that “no one should be forced” to use AI.
Whatsapp launches Advanced Chat Privacy to address Meta AI concerns
In an effort to address these concerns, WhatsApp has announced that it is introducing a new feature, ‘Advanced Chat Privacy.’ This setting is available for chats and group conversations and prevents content from being exported outside of WhatsApp. It can be activated on individual chats to prevent others from exporting conversations, auto-downloading files, or using AI functions.
Meta AI Model Training Method under Investigation
But how Meta built its AI model has only added to the controversy. The Atlantic conducted an investigation that revealed Meta may have used LibGen, a system for storing millions of pirated documents and books to train Llama AI. This is one of Meta’s large language models.
If this is proven, it will likely undermine trust and morally-ethical behaviour which are essential for the success of AI Integration. The need for powerful models may have accelerated progress, but it must not come at the cost of sound legal and ethical practices.
The Information Commissioner’s Office has told BBC that it will “continue to monitor” the use of Meta AI’s technologies and personal data in WhatsApp.
It said that “personal information is the fuel for much AI innovation. People need to have trust in organisations using their personal information responsibly.”
You decide: Do you like the Meta AI function in WhatsApp? Or do you just ignore it completely?
