WhatsApp copies Apple, but this time for a good reason

Meta is bringing advanced AI features to WhatsApp, but with a twist that could change how users perceive its privacy policies. By mimicking Apple’s privacy-preserving architecture, the company hopes to win trust for its AI-powered tools. The new system, called “Private Processing,” promises powerful capabilities without compromising confidentiality.

Private Processing aims to replicate Apple’s privacy safeguards

Meta has confirmed that WhatsApp will adopt a two-stage privacy approach similar to Apple’s Private Cloud Compute. First, as much processing as possible happens on the user’s device. When additional computing is needed, data is sent — fully encrypted — to a secure cloud system. Crucially, once the task is complete, that data is immediately deleted, following what Meta calls “stateless processing.”

This means that neither Meta nor WhatsApp can retain or access user data after it has been used, a model designed to prevent any potential misuse of sensitive information.

AI features on WhatsApp won’t compromise message security

Users have expressed concern over WhatsApp’s new AI chatbot, which appears in the app without a way to remove it. Among its capabilities is message summarization — a feature that would typically require access to private chats. Meta insists, however, that Private Processing allows AI to work without breaking the core promise of WhatsApp: that no one can read your messages except you and your recipients.

Transparency will be key to user trust

To build credibility, Meta has also pledged that its system will be open to independent audits, allowing researchers to verify its claims — just like Apple. Given Meta’s reputation, external validation may be the only way to assure usersthat their data remains safe.