WhatsApp's Incognito Chat with Meta AI keeps messages sealed in private processing

WhatsApp is introducing Incognito Chat with Meta AI, a mode that keeps AI conversations private using on-device encryption and ephemeral messaging [ @evolving.ai ]. The feature runs on Meta's Private Processing technology, meaning prompts and responses are processed in a secure environment without leaving the device. No data is stored by default, and messages disappear after the session ends.

Meta says the system isolates each chat in a cryptographic container that even Meta employees and infrastructure cannot access [ @evolving.ai ]. This differs from standard AI interactions on WhatsApp, where queries may be logged for safety and model improvement. Incognito Chat disables those logs and strips metadata.

The rollout will begin on WhatsApp and extend to the standalone Meta AI app in the coming months. It’s aimed at users who want to explore sensitive topics—like health, relationships, or legal issues—without creating a data trail.

While the feature promises stronger privacy, it also limits abuse monitoring. Meta has not explained how it will balance safety in incognito mode for illegal or harmful content.