WhatsApp users can now access Meta AI, Meta's artificial intelligence, which is beginning to be implemented in Europe after months of testing in other territories. This tool, visible through a blue icon on the app's home screen, provides direct access to a chatbot capable of answering questions, generating texts, and performing internet searches without leaving the app.
Where and how did Meta AI arrive?
Meta AI is an integrated virtual assistant, based on the Llama 3.2 language model, developed by Meta. Its arrival marks a significant shift in the company's strategy to transform WhatsApp into a multifunctional platform that goes beyond traditional messaging. Although its interface is simple, its integration is comprehensive and has significant implications for both functionality and privacy.
As we mentioned, its deployment has already begun in Spain and other European countries.. Initially, it has been gradually activated on Android devices, although it is now also available on iPhone. No additional download is required, as integration is done automatically through updates to the WhatsApp app itself. If you have received the update, from now on You will see a blue circle at the bottom or top of the interface, depending on the operating system you're using. Tapping it opens a one-on-one chat where you can communicate directly with the AI.
What you can do with Meta AI
Once the chat is open, Meta AI behaves like another contactYou can write questions, ask him to summarize articles, request personalized texts, or even ask him about cultural, historical, or scientific information. It's also possible summon her in group chats using the mention “@Meta AI” to resolve joint doubts.
Its notable features include:
- Answers to general questions: from trivial facts to complex explanations.
- Creating texts, summaries and code: useful for school, work or personal tasks.
- Integrated online searches: Thanks to the Bing search engine, it allows you to obtain information without leaving WhatsApp.
- Generation of images and avatars: Although it is not yet available in Europe, you will soon be able to create images with the help of AI.
La response speed is remarkable And although it can make mistakes, it proves to be quite effective in most everyday interactions. However, as we noted, It is important to remember that it should not be used as the sole source of information, especially for sensitive topics or those requiring absolute accuracy.AI makes mistakes too.
And is that Meta AI still doesn't reach the level of sophistication of competitors like ChatGPT-4 or Copilot in terms of depth of response. However, its main advantage lies in its accessibility: it requires no additional installation or subscription. At the same time, its response speed is superior in many cases to that of other tools, which can be decisive for those who are just looking for a quick answer without changing apps.
Privacy and Limitations of Meta AI in Europe
One of the most discussed issues surrounding this integration is its impact on privacy. Everything you interact with Meta AI is stored on Meta's servers.Although the company assures that the system doesn't access your personal chats (which are still end-to-end encrypted), the fact that interactions with the AI are processed in the cloud raises some concerns.
Another significant limitation is that, at least for now, Artificial intelligence cannot generate images or avatars in Europe., features that are available in the United States. It also can't forward messages or scan media content like it can in other markets.
There is no option to hide or disable Meta AI, by the way.The blue icon will appear permanently once implemented, although you can always opt out of using the feature.
How to activate Meta AI on your WhatsApp
If the blue circle still doesn't appear, Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed. You can update the app from the Google Play Store or the App Store depending on your device. Since the implementation is progressive, It may take a few days to activate for all users. Please be patient.
On Android devices, it usually appears in the contacts list or as a shortcut in the bottom corner of the screen. On iOS, its visibility varies, although it's generally integrated into the Chats tab.
Another step in Meta's technological strategy
It is envisaged that Meta AI continues to evolve within WhatsAppNew capabilities such as image generation, integration with other Meta services (such as Reels or Marketplace), automatic translation, and even productivity features are in the works. They may also be enabled more sophisticated forms of group interaction, including contextual responses, scheduling reminders, and collaborative content management.
This integration is also part of a broader strategic plan by Meta to develop its app ecosystem with artificial intelligence tools. In addition to WhatsApp, Meta AI is expected to expand to other platforms such as Messenger, Instagram, and even Facebook, offering similar features through these interfaces.
Although it still presents certain restrictions and generates debate about privacy, there's no doubt that WhatsApp's implementation marks a milestone in the evolution of the world's most used messaging app. How far can it go?
