What new 'search' feature is WhatsApp rolling out?

WhatsApp is once again working on an exciting new feature which is currently only available for users of the WhatsApp beta for Android 2.24.21.31 update.

The Meta-owned instant messaging app's new feature, which is under development, enables users to search shared images on the web, WABetaInfo reported.

This new image search feature will allow users to find more information about a specific image they have received from a contact, so that they may identify misleading or fake images, often shared with the intent to deceive. 

For example, users may receive an image that has been altered or taken out of context, and the upcoming feature will help them verify its source and authenticity by searching for similar images or the original version on the web.

How will this feature work?

According to WABetaInfo, when users initiate a search for an image, it will be uploaded to Google for the search, without being shared with WhatsApp, ensuring that the messaging app itself does not store or process the image or its caption.

Users may also use this feature to verify the legitimacy of images shared in their conversations from news stories, social media posts, or memes, which might be manipulated to spread misinformation.

It's important to note that the image search feature will be available for all images, regardless of how they were shared or frequently forwarded.

This means users can search for more information about any image they receive, whether it was sent by a close contact or came through a forwarded message.

However, the ability to search 'links' on the web will only be available for frequently forwarded messages.

Users will have full control over whether they want to initiate a search or not, ensuring that no data is shared without their explicit action.