Google Messages is rolling out an update that’ll blur images containing nudity on the best Android phones.

After previewing the update last autumn, Google is now distributing the safety feature that will be automatically turned on for users under 18 years old. The feature is opt-in for everyone but supervised users who are unable to turn it off.

When enabled the Sensitive Content Warnings will use AI to blur images that “may contain nudity.” From here, users are able to delete the photo before viewing at all. Users can also block the number instantly. It’ll also be possible to view the image by removing the blur and then re-blur it.

A 9to5Google report reveals Google is offering additional protections that aim to prevent users sharing the photo in the first place. Google will remind “users of the risks of sending nude imagery and preventing accidental shares” and make them confirm they actually want to before hitting send.

When announcing the feature last October, Google wrote: “Sensitive Content Warnings is an optional feature that blurs images that may contain nudity before viewing, and then prompts with a “speed bump” that contains help-finding resources and options, including to view the content.

“When the feature is enabled, and an image that may contain nudity is about to be sent or forwarded, it also provides a speed bump to remind users of the risks of sending nude imagery and preventing accidental shares.”

Opinion

This future is modelled after similar warnings on iOS which aims to protect iPhone users from receiving NSFW content.

It’s a welcome addition from the smartphone giants considering nude photos could be a) unsolicited and unwanted b) sent to minors in the worst cases, or c) be inappropriate to view on devices while in public, for the protection of both the sender and recipient.