WhatsApp to soon allow users to search if the received image is real or not

WhatsApp

WhatsApp is integrating a ‘Search on web’ feature as a part of the latest WhatsApp beta update, which enables users to perform reverse image searches with the help of Google Lens.

In this era of AI-generated or deepfake images being more prevalent, reverse image tools can be really handy for discovering the source of a picture or to know from where it originally came. Lately, WhatsApp has also been a hotbed for spreading such images and to counter that Meta is reportedly developing a new feature that enables users to search shared images on the app directly on the web.

The latest "Search on web" option for images within WhatsApp allows users to send an image to Google Lens for verification. This feature is similar to Google’s existing reverse search feature on Lens, but its integration within WhatsApp makes it more convenient for users. By enabling users to confirm the authenticity of images, WhatsApp wants to stop the spread of manipulated media files, promoting a safer information environment.

This feature has been spotted by WhatsApp beta tester WABetaInfo in the latest WhatsApp beta version 2.24.23.13 for Android and version 24.22.10.79 for iOS. Users will find the "Search on web" option by tapping on the three-dot menu of any image, which initiates a reverse image search with the help of Google Lens.

As per WABetaInfo, some beta testers are already able to use the feature, while others can expect it to be available in the coming weeks. However, the ‘Search to web’ feature is entirely optional, and WhatsApp users can decide whether they want to use it to gain additional information or not.