WhatsApp likely to integrate 'Search image' feature to combat fake news
Last updated on: 14 March,2019 09:56 am
However, WhatsApp is yet to officially confirm the feature.
(Web Desk) – WhatsApp has been working on to curb the ‘fake news’ by allowing users to Google the images which they receive directly from the chat interface.
The new feature, likely to be named ‘Search image’ and powered by Google images, will be available within the messaging app as part of an upcoming update.
However, WhatsApp is yet to officially confirm the feature, and it is unknown when it will be ready for release. The fake news on social media platforms and messaging apps have turned out to be a major problem.
Fake news on WhatsApp and other social media platforms have led to mob lynching incidents and deaths of innocent citizens in India and other countries.
The messaging app is set to include Google’s reverse image search tool to help users know if images they receive are verified or not.
Code for Google images integration was found by WABetaInfo on the latest 2.19.73 WhatsApp beta.
Users can upload a received image using the new “Search image” feature to scan for similar images. It will help users verify images before forwarding the fake news.
According to WABetaInfo, WhatsApp will be using the official Google APIs to offer its reverse research feature. Users can already try out the feature from Google images on any platform on web browsers, but reverse search being integrated with WhatsApp will make things much easier for users.
The feature is not available for users just yet, and it may be a while until the reverse image search makes it to the live version of the app. WhatsApp has been trying to combat fake news by restricting forwards, launching commercials to educate the masses and the implementation of a reverse image search feature is the latest move in the company’s ongoing efforts.