Meta Platforms would soon start training its Artificial Intelligence (AI) models with public content shared by adults in the European Union (EU).
The company made the announcement on Monday, adding that people can also object to their data being used.
Meta would use public content such as posts, comments and interactions people have with its AI, to improve its models for European users.
Content used to train its models would include the platforms Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger.
The move followed the rollout of Meta AI in Europe last month and marked the resumption of training efforts paused last year due to regulatory concerns.
From this week, EU users will be notified via Meta apps and email about data collection.
This will improve its AI’s understanding of Europe’s diverse languages, cultures, and digital behaviors. An easy opt-out option will be provided.
Meta confirmed that it would respect all opt-out requests, including those already submitted.
The company emphasised that private messages and data from users under the age of 18 will not be used.
Meta noted its approach aligns with industry norms, citing Google and OpenAI’s similar data use.
The move follows approval from the European Data Protection Board, confirming Meta’s legal compliance.
Privacy advocates had previously raised concerns, but Meta insists its process is transparent and designed with user rights in mind.
With this step, Meta aimed to deliver more relevant and localised AI tools while maintaining compliance with Europe’s strict data protection standards
