WhatsApp keeps active in its mobile application the integration of Meta AI, an artificial intelligence assistant that cannot be deactivated by users. The function is present natively on the platform and affects those who use the application in Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona and the rest of Catalunya.
No option to deactivate Meta AI
There is no possibility to deactivate Meta AI on WhatsApp. Joshua Breckman, director of International Communications for the company, has explained that the tool works "like any other function" within the application. Users can delete the specific Meta AI chat, avoid mentioning it in groups or private conversations, and request the deletion of associated data stored on Meta's servers.
Risks of using old versions
Some users have tried to resort to previous versions of WhatsApp to avoid the integration of the assistant. However, this practice involves significant risks. Outdated editions often lack security updates and essential patches, which can expose devices to vulnerabilities and privacy issues. Furthermore, WhatsApp may restrict access or block accounts that use unauthorized versions of the application.
Political concern and debate in the European Union
The Slovak parliamentarian Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová has publicly expressed her concern about the absence of control mechanisms over artificial intelligence on WhatsApp. Through the social network X, formerly known as Twitter, she stated that this situation generates «serious doubts about user control and digital security».
"The absence of control mechanisms over artificial intelligence generates serious doubts about user control and digital security" - Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová, Parlamento Europeo
Ostrihoňová has referred the matter to the Comitè de Mercat Únic del Parlament Europeu, where she raised it directly before the executive vice-president and commissioner Henna Virkkunen.
Data management and privacy
Meta AI can access messages sent within its chat. The company allows requesting the deletion of data stored on its servers, although there is no option to completely deactivate the function. Users from Catalunya and other regions can take measures to limit interaction with the assistant, but Meta AI's integration remains active in the official application.