A privacy mode sounds simple, but different AI companion apps can mean very different things by “incognito.” Users should check exactly which data flows change.

Incognito should define memory behavior

A private session should clearly state whether conversation details can become long-term memories. If the mode only hides a chat from the visible history while still updating personalization, users may misunderstand its purpose.

History and retention are separate

A conversation can disappear from the interface while remaining temporarily on servers for safety or operations. Apps should explain retention rather than using vague “private” labels.

Training controls matter too

Users should know whether private sessions are excluded from model improvement or analytics. This is separate from whether the conversation is remembered by the companion.

Media needs its own rules

Uploaded photos, voice notes and generated images may have different storage lifecycles from text. Check whether media is deleted with the private chat.

Test the mode

Share a harmless temporary preference in a private session, start a normal session later and see whether the companion recalls it. Do not use sensitive information as a test.

For broader settings, see AI Companion Privacy Settings.

Bottom line

A useful privacy mode should explain memory, visible history, retention, training and media separately so users know what “private” actually changes.