WhatsApp Adds AI Writing Assistant with Privacy Protections

WhatsApp has introduced an AI-powered writing assistant designed to help users compose messages in various styles such as professional, funny, or supportive, with the option to edit suggestions before sending. This feature is currently available in English and limited to users in the US, with plans to expand to other languages and regions later in the year. Built on Meta's Private Processing technology, the assistant ensures that neither WhatsApp nor Meta can access the content of user messages or AI-generated suggestions, preserving end-to-end encryption and user privacy. An independent security audit by Trail of Bits found and helped resolve critical vulnerabilities in the Private Processing system, which uses advanced confidential computing techniques including hardware-based secure enclaves to protect user data. While the AI writing assistant joins a growing suite of WhatsApp AI tools, questions remain about its practical benefit in quick text conversations versus longer-form writing. Overall, WhatsApp emphasizes privacy and security as core elements of this new AI functionality, aligning with its broader commitment to safeguarding user communications.