UK Privacy Watchdog Clears Snap's AI Chatbot After Review

The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) completed its investigation into Snapchat's "My AI" chatbot. The ICO found that "Snap has, as of 22 November 2023, carried out an assessment of the impact of the envisaged processing operations on the protection of personal data relating to My AI that complies with Article 35 UK GDPR."

The investigation began after Snap launched "My AI" for Snapchat+ subscribers on 27 February 2023, before making it available to all Snapchat users on 19 April 2023. Initially, the ICO issued a Preliminary Enforcement Notice on 6 October 2023 for "alleged breaches of Articles 35 and 36 UK GDPR."

However, after reviewing Snap's response and new assessment, the Commissioner concluded that "Snap did not infringe Article 36(1) UK GDPR in failing to consult him prior to commencing the processing of personal data in connection with the My AI feature."

This case demonstrates how companies can work with regulators to address data protection concerns surrounding new AI technologies. The ICO's decision highlights the importance of thorough data protection impact assessments when implementing AI features in consumer applications.