WhatsApp has developed a feature designed to help users avoid being misled by fake or manipulated images. According to Wabetainfo, a site specializing in news and updates about the messaging app, WhatsApp is adding the option to search for an image using Google.
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The platform will introduce a new button called “Search the web” in the options menu that appears when a user receives an image. The process is simple: by clicking the button, the recipient can access Google Image Search, which will show similar images to help verify the authenticity of the one they’ve received. This will allow them to see if the image has appeared on other social media platforms or if it has been edited.
The feature, while mainly focused on security and privacy to help avoid the many hoaxes and scams circulating on WhatsApp, also has another use. It’s similar to the “Search Around” AI function that Google offers on some Android phones. By selecting the image, the user can get information related to it, such as identifying the location shown, the model of shoes in the picture, and more.
WhatsApp Is Also Working on Another Feature for Images
WhatsApp explains that when using this feature, the image will only be uploaded to Google, and Meta will not have access to the content. It will also not be shared with third parties, except for Google’s service.
Google Image Search on WhatsApp is currently available to a small group of users in the beta version of the app. The feature is expected to be rolled out to all users in the coming weeks.
This isn’t the only image-related feature WhatsApp is working on. The messaging app will also introduce a new camera button located on the right side of the text box, allowing users to quickly access their multimedia files, such as photos or videos. This will make it easier to send an image without having to go through the current multiple steps.