New Google Messages feature automatically blurs explicit images using on-device AI

Google

Google has reportedly started to roll out a new feature in its Messages app that automatically blurs images suspected of containing sensitive information or explicit content. The tool, powered by on-device artificial intelligence (AI), is designed to help Messages users, particularly minors, navigate digital communication through the app more safely.

According to a report by 9To5Google, the Sensitive Content Warnings with the controls will appear under the Protection & Safety section of Google Messages settings. It will then allow users to manage sensitive content warnings within the app’s settings menu. While this tool was announced last year and Google stated that it had started to roll out in February, the report adds that it is now showing up on some Android devices, and the rollout appears limited to the beta version so far.

Moreover, the feature is currently limited to image-based content and does not apply to videos. To curb the exposure of children to such explicit content, Google has divided minors into two categories - Supervised users and Unsupervised teens (teens between 13-17 years of age). For supervised users, this feature cannot be turned off, but parents will be able to control it through the Family Link app. However, as for unsupervised teens, the feature can be turned off or disabled through the Messages Settings page.

The report explained that this feature works in two ways. First, if an image contains explicit material, it will be automatically blurred. Additionally, users will get the choice to delete the image before opening, along with these options: Learn why explicit images can be risky, Block the sender, and Choose to view or not view the image. A broader rollout can be expected in the coming weeks amid growing scrutiny over children’s exposure to inappropriate content within messaging platforms.