Meta Introduces Incognito Chats in WhatsApp

Meta announced on May 14, 2026, the launch of Incognito Chats in WhatsApp and the Meta AI app. This feature allows users to ask private questions to the AI without them being visible to third parties, including Meta itself. The Incognito Chats are intended for sensitive topics such as health inquiries or personal matters. The Incognito Chats utilize a technology called Private Processing, which ensures that messages are processed in a secure environment.

Meta emphasizes that these chats are not stored and that messages disappear by default after the conversation ends. This represents a significant advancement in the privacy of AI-supported chats. Ten years ago, WhatsApp introduced end-to-end encryption to ensure the security of user communication. With the introduction of Incognito Chats, this security measure is now being extended to AI interactions. Meta promises that no one, not even the company itself, has access to the content of these chats.

In addition to Incognito Chats, Meta plans to introduce Side Chats in the coming months. This feature will allow users to receive private support within existing conversations without disrupting the main chat. These Side Chats will also be protected by Private Processing. The Incognito Chats will be available globally in WhatsApp and the Meta AI app. Meta has announced that the rollout will be gradual, with specific timelines yet to be disclosed.

The feature is designed to allow users to ask questions that require a high level of discretion. Meta has repeatedly emphasized that protecting privacy is of utmost importance to the company. The introduction of Incognito Chats is another step in this direction. Users can now ask questions on topics such as health or personal issues without worrying that this information will be stored or analyzed. The announcement of Incognito Chats comes at a time when user trust in digital platforms is increasingly being tested.

The ability to have private conversations with an AI could be attractive to many users who have concerns about their privacy. However, Meta has made it clear that user trust in the security of the chats is crucial for the success of this new feature. Meta has provided further information about the Incognito Chats in a blog post. The introduction of this feature could significantly change the way users interact with AI.

Initial user reports are expected in the coming weeks as the feature is rolled out globally. The Incognito Chats are part of a broader strategy by Meta aimed at enhancing the user experience while protecting privacy. The technology behind Private Processing could also be applied in other company applications to ensure similar security standards. Meta plans to launch the Incognito Chats worldwide in the coming months, with exact availability varying by region.