WhatsApp is facing criticism for introducing a new AI chatbot feature that cannot be removed from the app. Though described as “optional,” the Meta AI icon now permanently appears on the chats screen, frustrating users who find it intrusive, BBC reported.
Meta compared the tool to other fixed features like ‘Channels’ and ‘Status’, stating users aren’t required to interact with it and that user feedback is being considered.
The move echoes prior criticism of Microsoft's Recall function, which was later made optional. The update comes as Meta tests AI on Instagram to detect underage users who fake their age, as stated by BBC.
