The WhatsApp application tests a new feature that allows users to hold audio conversations with the “Meta Ai” smart assistant, which is backed by artificial intelligence from Mita, which opened questions by users related to privacy protection.
The feature is currently available in an experimental version of iOS, after it was previously provided on Android devices, and it is expected to be launched for all users at a later time.
The mechanism of use and the integration of the feature within the application
Once the feature is activated, users can start a voice conversation session with “Meta Ai” by clicking on the audio wave icon inside the “Chat” tab, or by default by the “call” tab.
Technical reports stated that this step makes WhatsApp in a competitive position with other chat robots that offer similar audio features.
Although the feature is provided in a smooth way, its integration with iOS imposes some changes, for example when starting a sound call showing an orange index in the upper corner of the phone screen, to indicate that the microphone is in use, and this indicator cannot be disabled, which keeps the user permanently aware that the smart assistant listens.
WhatsApp application
Privacy Challenges and the expansion of data collection
Although operating the assistant in the background while using other applications may seem practical, this change is increasingly concerned about the size of the data that “Meta AI” can access, as long as the assistant works and listens, the possibilities of collecting additional information expand in a way that exceeds the limits of the WhatsApp application itself, and users are advised to be careful and not to say sensitive information while running the feature in the background
To increase control, the user can conceal the sound of the microphone whenever he wants, but the orange indicator will remain visible, as indicating that “Meta Ai” is still in listening, and this design reflects a strict policy from Apple regarding privacy protection, but at the same time highlights the tension between the user’s comfort and specificity.
Fears of using the feature without awareness
The new feature sparked a wave of warnings, as Meta advised users not to share personal information while using “Meta AI”, which reflects an implicit recognition of the possibility of leaks or data use for analytical purposes.
Technical reports also stressed the need for the user to be aware of what he says during the conversation, especially that artificial intelligence learns from everything he hears.
