NAIROBI, Kenya – WhatsApp has officially begun rolling out its Meta AI assistant globally, with Kenya among the first countries to gain access to the new feature, which integrates Meta’s powerful Llama 3 model into the popular messaging platform.
The AI assistant, now available on both iOS and Android, allows users to chat with an artificial intelligence system directly within the app.
It can answer questions, summarise information, generate content, and even create images—bringing an entirely new layer of functionality to WhatsApp.
However, the rollout is gradual and region-based. Not all users will see the feature immediately, even with the latest version of the app installed.
Access may vary depending on device model, app store rollout schedules, and Meta’s internal activation protocols.
Where to Find It
Meta AI appears in two main locations within the app:
- A new search bar at the top of the chat list, labelled “Ask Meta AI”
- A dedicated Meta AI contact in the chat window, accessible via a button at the bottom right
In the near future, users may also be able to summon Meta AI within group chats using the @Meta AI mention, though that functionality is still under limited testing.
Privacy and Control Concerns
Meta AI is being integrated into both personal and business versions of WhatsApp.
For business users, it promises AI-assisted customer service, automated replies, and the ability to generate AI-driven ad content.
However, the assistant cannot be disabled within the app. WhatsApp does not offer an official option to turn off Meta AI, raising concerns among users worried about privacy and data usage.
For now, users can only avoid interacting with it—though the AI will remain a built-in part of the updated WhatsApp experience.
Meta’s Broader AI Strategy
The rollout is part of Meta’s broader AI strategy, bringing Llama 3 to the forefront of its platforms, including Messenger, Instagram, and Facebook.
While Meta AI has potential, its current limitations in handling complex queries show that it still has some distance to cover before rivaling more mature platforms.
“These early teething problems are expected,” said a Nairobi-based software developer who has tested the feature. “But for now, it’s still far from becoming a reliable assistant for daily or professional use.”
Meta has confirmed that the AI assistant will expand to more countries and users in the coming weeks.
Users are advised to keep their apps updated to check for availability.
