Hajra Naz
Instagram head Adam Mosseri recently took to his account to clear up one of the most common myths about the app: the idea that Meta secretly listens to people’s conversations through their phone microphones to show them ads.
This theory has been around for years. Many users believe that Meta must be recording what they say because of how accurate Instagram and Facebook ads seem to be. But according to Mosseri, that’s simply not true. He even joked that his own wife has questioned him about it because the ads feel so spot-on.
Why People Believe Meta Listens
Almost everyone has had the strange experience of talking about a product and then suddenly seeing an ad for it on Instagram or Facebook. Some people say it feels like the app is “reading their mind.” Other times, you may not even say it out loud, just think about it — and the next day it pops up in your feed.
That eerie feeling is what keeps the microphone conspiracy alive. But Meta has pushed back on this rumor for years. Back in 2016, the company (then Facebook) published a blog post denying it. Later, Mark Zuckerberg told Congress that Meta does not collect audio data to power ads.
How Ads Really Work on Instagram
Mosseri says the real reason ads feel so personal is not because Meta is spying on you, it’s because of data. Advertisers share information with Meta about who visits their websites and shops online. Instagram then uses this data to predict what kinds of ads will interest you.
On top of that, Instagram’s algorithm looks at patterns from people who have similar interests. If others like you are searching for travel deals, skincare products, or fitness gear, chances are you’ll see ads for those too.
This system has made Meta billions of dollars. And now, it’s about to get even smarter.
The New Era: AI-Powered Ad Targeting
Meta announced that starting December 16, it will begin using data from user interactions with its AI products, like Meta AI chatbots, to improve ad targeting. This means conversations you have with Meta’s AI about hobbies, shopping, or even weekend plans could influence the ads you see later.
In simple terms, before, Meta relied on browsing history, clicks, and lookalike audiences. Now, it’s adding AI insights into the mix. And that may feel even more personal, since people tend to share deeper thoughts with chatbots than they do in their posts or comments.
Read More: Are Chatbots Making Us Mentally Lazy and Stupid?
Why It Feels Like They’re Listening
Mosseri admits that sometimes, ads feel too good to be a coincidence. But he says psychology plays a role too. For example:
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You may have seen the ad before the conversation, but scrolled past it without noticing.
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Later, when the topic comes up in real life, your brain connects the dots and assumes Instagram “heard” you.
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In reality, it’s your memory playing tricks on you.
He also noted that if Instagram really was using your microphone, you’d notice it. Your phone would show an active mic symbol, and the battery would drain much faster.
The Bigger Picture: Privacy and Trust in 2025
Even though Mosseri is trying to calm fears, some users remain skeptical. Meta doesn’t exactly have the best track record when it comes to privacy. With the new AI-driven ad model, people may feel like the company is “listening” in a different way, not through microphones, but through their most personal AI chats.
This raises big questions about digital privacy, online tracking, and the future of personalized ads. For users, it’s another reminder that on social media, if something feels free, you’re probably paying with your data.
FAQs
Does Instagram listen to me through my phone?
No, Instagram does not record conversations for ads.
Why are Instagram ads so accurate?
Because of data tracking, browsing history, and powerful algorithms.
Is Meta using AI for ads now?
Yes, Meta AI and chatbots are part of its new ad targeting system.
Can I opt out of targeted ads on Instagram?
You can’t remove ads, but you can limit tracking in privacy settings.
Should I worry about Instagram privacy?
Instagram doesn’t use your microphone, but it does collect a lot of data.
