If you’ve recently noticed new AI features popping up on your devices, (Specifically in WhatsApp, Windows, or on your Android phone), then you’re not alone. Tech giants like Meta, Microsoft, and Google are rolling out platform-wide AI tools faster than most of us can keep up with. And while these tools are often marketed as “helpful” assistants, they come with a growing number of privacy concerns you shouldn’t ignore.
Meta’s New AI in WhatsApp: Unwanted Guest or Helpful Feature?
When Meta (formerly Facebook) added its blue AI circle to WhatsApp, many users were alarmed. It felt like Meta’s AI had been quietly invited into private chats and couldn’t be removed. While it’s not quite as invasive as it initially looked, you do need to manually block it if you want it out of your conversations, details on that here. The worst part is, most users aren’t even aware it’s there!
Microsoft Recall: A Memory You Didn’t Ask For
Microsoft took things a step further with its recent Windows 11 “feature” called Recall. This tool essentially gives your PC a photographic memory; it takes snapshots of everything you’re doing and stores them in a searchable history. That includes web pages, documents, and even messages on-screen.
Worried yet? You should be. These snapshots can include personal or sensitive info unless you specifically block certain apps. One messaging app, Signal, has successfully prevented Recall from reading its content—but most others haven’t. You can learn how to disable Microsoft Recall here.
Google’s Gemini: Smart Assistant or Silent Snooper?
Not to be outdone, Google is rolling out its own AI assistant called Gemini to Android devices. It promises to help you get things done—like sending messages, making calls, or setting timers; allegedly without using your data to train the AI. Sounds helpful, right?
But there’s a catch.
While Google says Gemini won’t read your WhatsApp messages on its own, it can do so through tools like Google Assistant or the built-in Utilities app. This means if you ask your phone to read or respond to a message, Gemini may access it—including photos. Worse, there’s currently no simple way to completely turn this off.
As tech site Ars Technica points out, just because Google says it’s “good news” doesn’t mean users agree. Many people want to keep AI out of their devices entirely—but right now, they don’t have that option.
What You Can Do Right Now
Whether you’re a home user or running a small business, here are some steps you can take today:
- Check your privacy settings: Look for options related to AI assistants (Gemini, Recall, Meta AI) and turn off anything you’re not comfortable with.
- Disable unwanted AI features: On Android, you can limit Gemini’s access in your phone’s settings. On Windows, disable Recall if it’s available on your device.
- Stay informed: These features are often rolled out quietly. Regularly review updates to your devices and apps to see what’s being added.
Bottom Line
These new AI tools aren’t going away—but you do have some control. Don’t wait until your private information ends up somewhere you didn’t intend. Take five minutes today to review your settings and lock things down.
Let’s stay safe out there!
