Meta is rolling out a privacy policy update that expands how the company uses off-platform data to personalize user experiences. The change allows Meta to pull information from outside businesses and apply it directly to AI responses and primary content feeds. This shift marks a move away from previous settings that gave users separate controls for different types of external data usage.
The company replaces two previous settings with a single Activity from other businesses toggle in the Accounts Center.
The update introduces a single toggle labeled 'Activity from other businesses' within the Accounts Center. This new setting replaces two earlier options that previously managed off-platform data separately. Users can now adjust their privacy preferences through one unified control rather than navigating multiple menus to manage how Meta uses external information.
Turning on the toggle permits Meta to collect and utilize browsing history, app usage, and other activity from third-party websites and apps for personalization purposes. The company states that this data helps tailor AI interactions and content recommendations across its platforms. Turning off the setting stops Meta from using external history for personalization but does not halt data collection entirely.
The rollout excludes several regions at launch, including the European Union, United Kingdom, Brazil, Thailand, South Africa, Turkey, South Korea, Ecuador, Nigeria, and Kenya. A Meta spokesperson confirmed that the update will not be available in these locations initially. The exact timeline for when excluded regions might gain access to the feature remains unspecified.
Meta plans to deploy this privacy change globally across its platforms while respecting the current regional restrictions. The company maintains that the single toggle simplifies user control over off-platform data usage. Users in supported regions can now manage how their external activity influences AI and feed personalization through one setting.
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