Gemini AI Raises Privacy Concerns Over WhatsApp Message Previews

A new update related to Google’s Gemini AI has sparked fresh privacy concerns among WhatsApp users. According to recent reports from July 2025, Gemini AI has been observed accessing message previews and notifications from apps like WhatsApp—even when users have disabled app activity tracking settings.

Gemini’s Expanded App Access Raises Questions

The issue came to light shortly after Google’s July 2025 Google System Update. Users noticed that Gemini AI appeared to retrieve contextual data from notifications and system apps, even in instances where “App Activity” was toggled off in privacy settings.

According to system analysts, this behavior is linked to Gemini AI’s integration into Android’s system-level services. By functioning as a digital assistant embedded in notification services and device-level interactions, Gemini AI has expanded its data collection reach, raising questions about consent and transparency.

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WhatsApp Users Most Affected

Among the apps reportedly affected, WhatsApp has drawn particular attention. The platform’s end-to-end encryption does not apply to notification previews, making it theoretically possible for third-party services like Gemini AI to collect metadata or content snippets shown in system notifications.

Security experts stress that while this does not compromise the encryption of full message content, it still poses privacy implications. Notification previews can contain sensitive information such as two-factor authentication codes, personal messages, or private business communication.

User Control Options and Limitations

Google has acknowledged the expanded capabilities of Gemini AI but maintains that all data handling complies with its published privacy policies. However, users report confusion over where and how to disable Gemini’s access entirely.

Available options include:

• Disabling notification previews on lock screens
• Reviewing and revoking Gemini app permissions in Android settings
• Turning off notification access under special app access settings

Yet some users argue these measures are insufficient, as system updates may re-enable certain permissions by default.

Ongoing Debate Over AI and User Privacy

This incident has fueled broader debate about the trade-offs between AI assistance and user privacy on smartphones. Privacy advocates call for clearer opt-in mechanisms and full transparency regarding what personal data AI models like Gemini can access.

Google has not issued a formal statement addressing the specific concerns around WhatsApp notifications but is expected to provide clarification in upcoming Android privacy updates. Meanwhile, users are encouraged to manually review their settings and stay informed about future policy changes.