Moxie Marlinspike, co-founder of the encrypted messaging service Signal, has released a new artificial intelligence chat service Confer. Launched in December, Confer intends to offer a privacy-oriented alternative to other popular chatbots such as ChatGPT and Claude. With a design that closely resembles these well-known platforms, Confer seeks to offer users a familiar experience while prioritizing data security.
Confer makes itself unique with its backend architecture specifically designed to stop data collection. This transparency is one of the principles of open-source rigor that has made Signal a storied leader in the world of privacy. As consumers around the world realize and speak out about potential data privacy harms caused by technologies like AI, Marlinspike’s move helps confront these fears at their core.
The technology platform allows a robust free tier that enables curious users to explore the service without any cost to them. For now, this free version caps users at 20 messages a day and five active chats. For end users looking for additional features, Confer offers a premium version of the service starting at $35 per month. This new premium access includes unlimited usage, advanced AI models, and personalized interactions customized to each individual user’s preferences.
Marlinspike emphasizes the potential dangers of conventional chat interfaces, stating, “Chat interfaces like ChatGPT know more about people than any other technology before. When you combine that with advertising, it’s like someone paying your therapist to convince you to buy something.”
Confer’s launch comes on the heels of an intense national discussion on data privacy. Discussions surrounding organizations’ responsibility to implement ethical AI use has never been higher. Now, Marlinspike is taking these concerns to task. His ambition is to offer a haven where users can engage openly, assured that their data won’t be taken advantage of.