- WhatsApp launches Message Summaries, an AI feature for summarizing unread messages.
- Processing is done locally, ensuring user privacy.
- The feature is optional, disabled by default, and initially available only in the US and in English.
- Other users are not notified and the summarized content is not stored.
Currently, Managing the avalanche of messages on WhatsApp has become a complex task., especially after being offline for a while or after long meetings. Many users find themselves sorting through dozens of notifications and pending conversations, a common situation in both personal and professional environments. To ease this burden and improve the experience, The messaging platform has announced Message Summaries, a new AI-powered feature that privately and automatically summarize unread messages, helping users focus on what's most important at a glance.
The main objective of this functionality is to The user can obtain the key points of a conversation without having to read each message individually. So, if for example a work group generates 50 messages during an hour of absence, You can receive a summary of the main agreements, mentions or relevant decisions at the click of a button. dedicated that appears at the top of the chat.
Private processing and absolute user control
One of the highlights of Message Summaries is his focus on privacy and local processing. The function uses the so-called technology Private Processing from Meta, which means that neither the company itself, nor WhatsApp, nor third parties can access the content of the conversations or the summaries generated. All analysis is performed on the user's own device., without data being sent to the cloud or stored on external servers. Security and confidentiality remain intact, as the information never leaves the mobile phone.
This design is especially relevant for those wary of AI systems that require uploading personal data to remote servers. Furthermore, The feature is completely optional and is disabled by default.The user has the final say on whether to activate this system and can choose which chats to allow AI to summarize messages in, thanks to advanced privacy options available in the app's settings.
Besides, Summaries are private and visible only to the user.At no time will chat participants receive notifications or indications that a summary has been requested, thus maintaining discretion and individual control.
How it works and who it's available to
The implementation of Message Summaries is simple: when opening a chat with unread messages, The option to generate a private summary using AI appearsIn just a few seconds, a summary in bullet format that highlights the most relevant issues, such as schedule changes, important announcements, or shared documents. Although Meta hasn't provided concrete examples, the hope is that artificial intelligence will be able to identify the essential mentions and central topics of each conversation.
For the moment, the function It is available only for US users and in English., although WhatsApp has already confirmed its intention to expand it to other countries and languages throughout 2025No details have been provided regarding integration with WhatsApp Business or the web version, but it's likely that after the initial rollout, the service will expand to more platforms and regions.
Another important aspect is that Message Summaries are not functional if advanced privacy settings are enabled in the chat., thus reinforcing user control over which conversations can be summarized by AI.
Advantages and some doubts about privacy
The arrival of AI in instant messaging applications responds to a growing demand for tools that streamline the flow of information and prioritize relevant information. In a market like Spain, where WhatsApp is used by almost all smartphone users, solutions like Message Summaries can save time and prevent essential issues from falling through the cracks..
However, the function is not without controversy. Some experts and users have reservations about the confidentiality of Meta systems., recalling previous privacy-related incidents. Although local processing and non-transferability of data are guaranteed, distrust persists among those who consider any AI intervention a potential risk to personal information.
Nevertheless, The option to enable or disable Message Summaries, and the absence of third-party notifications when using it, gives the user a greater degree of control and transparency. Compared to other new developments in the sector, WhatsApp's own emphasis on voluntary use and respect for privacy reinforces confidence in the system, although time and practical experience will determine the ultimate acceptance of this feature.
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