April 28, 2025, 11:00 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Confidential information can quickly spread, even if it’s intended for a small group. A new feature in WhatsApp aims to make this more difficult, but it also brings an unexpected side effect: Even Meta’s AI is left out.
WhatsApp is introducing a new feature called “Advanced Chat Privacy,” which restricts the export of content and automatic media downloads. Meta AI will also be disabled in protected chats.
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Advanced Privacy for Private Conversations
Those who want more control over sensitive content in WhatsApp groups or individual chats can activate a new protection feature: “Advanced Chat Privacy.” When this option is enabled, content can no longer be easily used outside the respective chat. According to Meta, the feature prevents both the export of chat histories and the automatic downloading of images, videos, or other files.
Additionally, WhatsApp disables Meta AI features in these chats — such as automatic suggestions or analyses that are otherwise available.
New Feature Complements Existing Privacy Options
The protection can be activated via the chat overview: A tap on the chat name is sufficient, after which “Advanced Chat Privacy” can be selected. Meta announced plans to expand this feature further in the future.
Other protection features are already available in WhatsApp, such as so-called disappearing messages or the “Chat Lock.” The latter allows certain chats to be accessed only with a password or fingerprint. The new privacy feature can be combined with these existing options.
Privacy in Sensitive Group Situations
Meta envisions a possible use case in support groups or other sensitive discussion circles where not all participants know each other personally, yet confidential topics are shared. In such cases, the enhanced protection can be particularly helpful.
Despite new protection measures, criticism of WhatsApp persists. “Netzpolitik.org” continues to criticize “WhatsApp’s half-hearted approach to data protection and privacy.” While communication is secured through end-to-end encryption, the service still stores significant metadata.
Rollout Occurs Gradually
According to Meta, the new feature is being introduced with the latest version of the messenger for Android and iOS. However, it may take some time before it is available on all devices.
With material from dpa