WhatsApp has initiated testing a new feature that enables users to effortlessly search for an image they’ve received from someone else with just a few taps. The messaging platform has introduced a new feature to beta testers, incorporating a reverse image lookup function for images in chats. This addition aims to assist users in detecting manipulated media. Currently, the feature is exclusively accessible to beta testers on Android; however, it is anticipated to be released to all users in the near future.
WhatsApp is currently experimenting with a new ‘Search on Web’ feature for image lookup within the media viewer on the latest Android beta version 2. 24. 23. 13. This feature, highlighted by feature tracker WABetaInfo, enables beta testers to search for images directly from the chat interface. The new feature now includes a reverse image search functionality, prompting users to confirm before uploading the image.
To test out the new feature, users should first install the most recent version of WhatsApp beta for Android. Next, they can open a chat and choose an image. Users can simply tap on the three-dot menu at the top of the screen, and then tap on Search on web, followed by selecting Search. Nevertheless, it seems that the feature is activated through a server-side update. Gadgets 360 staff members were unable to test the feature despite updating to the latest beta version.
Unlike recent cosmetic updates to WhatsApp for Android,
the new image lookup feature is a powerful tool to quickly determine the source of an image. By simply tapping a few times, users are able to detect matching or similar images shared on the internet, or verify whether they have received images that have been edited or manipulated — prompting users to unintentionally propagate misinformation.
The feature is dependent on Google’s reverse image search function. It is important to mention that WhatsApp gives users the option to access it as they see fit. The messaging platform owned by Meta confirms that it cannot access images before, during, or after sending them to Google for processing. The reverse image lookup feature is currently being tested by select beta users. It is anticipated to be available to all users in the near future.
