Preview with Caution: Google Messages Flags Nude Images Before Viewing

Google has rolled out a new safety feature for its Android messaging app, Google Messages. The feature designed to detect and alert users about images that may contain nudity will now warn recipients before they open potentially sensitive content.

When a photo containing nudity is sent, the app will blur the image and display a cautionary alert, allowing users to decide whether to view it. Users can adjust the feature in Privacy & Safety under Settings > Safety & privacy by enabling the Sensitive content warning toggle. This marks a significant step toward providing in-app safeguards on widely used messaging platforms.

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Early Access, Gradual Rollout

Initially announced in June, the feature is currently being made available to beta testers within the Google Messages Android app. Google plans to introduce it to broader availability in the coming weeks for Android users. The company emphasised that image processing happens locally—meaning the nudity detection occurs exclusively on-device, with no images being shared with Google servers.

This approach upholds user privacy and complies with industry best practices. By doing so, the feature aims to reduce user exposure to embarrassing, unwanted, or potentially harmful images without compromising data security.

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The move aligns with similar initiatives emerging across tech platforms where digital consent is taking priority. Meta has rolled out nudity warnings in Instagram DMs, safeguarding users from shock content. Meanwhile, Apple’s parental-control features, such as CSAM scanning, sometimes spark debate—but underscore tech industry trends toward image safety measures.

Freeing users from inadvertent exposure to sensitive content while preserving choice is central to Google’s strategy. Recipients will still have the option to view the blurred image by tapping “View anyway.” This respects personal autonomy and balances protection with user agency.

Despite technical hurdles—such as accurate nudity detection across diverse skin tones and contexts—Google said its AI models have been refined through extensive testing. The system reportedly achieves high precision without generating excessive false positives, although the ability to prevent minor content slips remains under review.