Between the questionable WhatsApp chains, the photos out of their context and the visuals a little too perfect to be true, it sometimes becomes complicated to untangle the true from the false. The messaging is about to launch a new, practical function to lift doubts about the images received.
A novelty inspired by Google Lens
WhatsApp, one of the most used messaging applications in the world, continues to refine its features. His last find? An inverted image search function. To put it simply, it allows you to check in one click where a photo has been sent to you, thanks to the direct integration of Google Lens.
In the Current beta version on Androidwhen you open a full screen image, a new button appears: “Search on the web”. By selecting this option, the image is analyzed by the visual recognition tool of Google, which redirects you to similar web pages or sites where the photo has already been published.
A response to misleading images and scams
This type of functionality is timely at a time when False information circulates quicklyoften accompanied by decontextualized visuals. Between rumors, political poisoning or diverted photos for questionable purposes, it has become essential to be able to verify an image before sharing it in turn.
In a more personal setting, this function can also help flick the fraudulent profiles. We have all heard of a friend or a aunt who thought he was discussing with a celebrity or a charming unknown … to then discover that the profile photo had been stolen on the internet. With this novelty, it will be easier to identify this kind of deception.
Progressive availability for users
For the moment, only users registered in the program Whatsapp beta via the Google Play Store can test this function. But his deployment on a larger scale cannot be longas is often the case with the tools introduced in preview.
And if you are wondering what it changes for you: no need to make screenshots or juggle between applications to use inverted search. Everything is done directly From the WhatsApp interfacein a fluid and integrated way.
A small step for the app, a big step for the fight against disinformation. And a good reminder that, in doubt, a small click can avoid many misunderstandings.
