Google Messages Tests AI Image Verification Feature in Chats

Google continues to develop tools to combat misinformation in the digital space. Recent beta versions of the Messages app for Android reveal signs of a feature that will allow users to determine whether an image in a chat was created or edited using artificial intelligence.

The new tool will analyze media files for metadata from the C2PA (Content Credentials) standard, developed by the Content Authenticity Initiative. This will enable the detection of not only fully AI-generated images but also the extent of AI usage—such as partial editing or combining with regular photos.

According to text strings found in the app’s code, users will be able to access detailed information about an image’s origin via the "View Details" menu. While the feature is not yet active, developers have already laid the groundwork for various scenarios, ranging from "created with AI" to "possibly edited with AI tools" or "combined from multiple images."

This Google initiative responds to the growing problem of AI-generated content spreading across messengers and social networks. Analysts report that the share of images with AI-generated or edited elements in the digital space is growing exponentially, necessitating new approaches to verifying content authenticity.

It remains unclear when the feature will be available in the stable version of the app, but its implementation could significantly enhance transparency in visual content sharing on Google Messages.