Nudity detection and blurring happen entirely on-device, ensuring no image data is sent to Google’s servers.
Feature is on by default for kids and teens; adults can enable it manually in app settings.
Parents can manage nudity warnings for supervised accounts through the Family Link app.
Google has announced a new safety feature in its Messages app to protect users from potentially sensitive content. The update includes automatic warnings for images that may contain nudity, appearing when users send, receive, or forward such content. With this feature rolling out, Google will now blur suspected nude images by default. Notably, the detection and blurring happen entirely on the device, meaning no image data is sent to Google’s servers, preserving user privacy.
Additionally, the feature will also trigger a warning while sending or forwarding a nude image. Users will receive a prompt, “You’ll be reminded of the risks, and you must confirm to continue.” After that prompt, they can either click on “To continue, swipe right Yes, send” or “To cancel, select No, don’t send.”
The feature is turned on automatically for children with supervised accounts, as well as for signed-in teens between 13 and 17. Kids cannot disable the setting, and parents can manage it using the Family Link app. If a child tries to view, send, or forward a blurred image, a warning will appear.
Toggle the setting for “Warnings in Google Messages.” (Your child will not be notified of any changes.)
For teenagers with unsupervised accounts, the nudity warning setting is also on by default but can be switched off in the app’s settings. Adults over 18, however, will need to turn it on manually if they want to use it.
Himani Jha is a tech news writer at Digit. Passionate about smartphones and consumer technology, she has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. When not immersed in gadgets, she enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music.