Meta-owned WhatsApp is testing a new image verification feature that will help users quickly determine if an image has been tampered with, addressing the growing problem of misinformation on the platform. With the rise of AI-generated fake images, this new feature could be a crucial tool for WhatsApp users.
WhatsApp’s Search on Web Feature: A New Way to Verify Images
WhatsApp is reportedly rolling out a new image verification feature as part of its beta for Android users. This feature, called “Search on Web,” allows users to perform a reverse image search directly within the app. Using Google Lens, the reverse image search checks if an image has been altered or is fake.
To use the new feature, tap on an image, then press the three-dot menu in the top right corner. This will trigger the reverse image search, which offers a quick way to verify the authenticity of images. This eliminates the need to open a browser or use Google Lens manually.
A Beta Feature for Now, Coming Soon to All Users
Currently, the image verification tool is available only in WhatsApp’s beta version and is limited to a small group of testers. If you don’t have access to the feature yet, you may need to wait for an official update that will roll out to all users in the coming weeks.
WhatsApp’s Ongoing Efforts to Combat Misinformation
This WhatsApp image verification feature is just one of WhatsApp’s recent steps to combat misinformation. Last month, the platform introduced a feature that lets users store contacts within the app. Additionally, WhatsApp added a new status feature that allows users to mention others, similar to Instagram Stories. These features highlight WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to tackle the spread of fake content.
