Summary The feature means that neither users nor AI-generated responses will be saved or reviewed once the mode is enabled
(Web Desk) - WhatsApp has launched a new ‘incognito’ mode for conversations with its AI chatbot, allowing users to interact privately without chats being stored or accessible even by the company.
The feature means that neither users nor AI-generated responses will be saved or reviewed once the mode is enabled, and conversation history will disappear from the chat interface.
Will Cathcart, head of WhatsApp, said the feature was designed in response to user demand for more private interactions with AI, particularly on sensitive topics such as health, relationships, and financial matters.
However, cybersecurity experts have raised concerns that the new system could reduce accountability, as WhatsApp would have no access to chat histories if issues arise.
WhatsApp, which is owned by Meta alongside Facebook, Instagram and Messenger, introduced Meta AI into its platform last year, a move that initially faced user criticism over concerns about control and privacy.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg later stated that Meta AI had reached around one billion users across its platforms, highlighting the company’s growing focus on artificial intelligence.
Cathcart said the incognito feature represents a “no-log” system, describing it as the first major AI product where conversations are not stored on company servers.
He added that the underlying privacy technology differs from traditional end-to-end encryption but offers a comparable level of protection.
Cybersecurity experts, including Professor Alan Woodward of the University of Surrey, said the risk to WhatsApp’s existing security framework appears low, but warned that the feature could make it harder to investigate harmful outcomes linked to AI interactions.
Concerns have also been raised that disappearing chats may limit evidence in cases where AI responses are linked to harm or misuse.
Meta said the feature will initially support only text-based interactions, with strict safety filters in place to block harmful or illegal requests.
The company has also restricted third-party AI chatbots on WhatsApp, meaning users can only access Meta’s own AI system within the platform.
Meta is reportedly investing heavily in artificial intelligence infrastructure, with spending expected to reach $145 billion in 2026, as it aims to strengthen its advertising and digital services ecosystem.
