WhatsApp is using Meta AI to read your group chats, but your messages are still private

WhatsApp has launched a new AI feature aimed at assisting users in better managing their unread messages. Referred to as “Message Summaries,” this feature, developed by Meta AI, is designed to offer users fast and confidential recaps of unanswered conversations in individual and group chats.

WhatsApp states that this optional feature employs a novel privacy-preserving system known as “Private Processing,” which guarantees that neither Meta nor WhatsApp can view the content of messages or the generated summaries. The summaries are shown in a bullet-point style and labeled as “visible only to you,” emphasizing the focus on privacy.

The firm stated that Message Summaries are especially helpful in active group chats, where individuals frequently struggle to navigate lengthy chains of unread messages. The summaries produced by AI enable users to see a brief overview of the discussion without having to open or read every single message.

The function is off by default and needs to be activated by the user manually. When enabled, qualifying chats will display a small icon signifying that a summary can be accessed. Summaries are created on the user’s device and are not transmitted to outside servers, in line with the Private Processing protocol. Private Processing represents Meta’s secure computing system, akin to Apple’s Private Cloud Compute, and operates within a Trusted Execution Environment (TEE). It is structured around multiple fundamental principles, such as confidential data handling, stringent assurances against manipulation, and openness. If an effort is made to modify the system’s security guarantees, the system will either cease operation or render the tampering publicly detectable.

The framework additionally facilitates independent audits to validate Meta’s privacy assertions and is designed to be non-targetable, stateless, and forward secure. Enhanced Chat Privacy options enable users to determine which conversations qualify for AI summaries. Other participants in the chat will not receive any notifications if the summary feature is utilized.

Message Summaries are being introduced to users in the United States, featuring support for the English language. Meta indicates that the functionality will be available in additional languages and areas in the upcoming months, as a component of its larger initiative to incorporate AI tools throughout its platforms.