Google Messages Introduces Sensitive Content Warnings for Android Users
Google is expanding a new safety feature in its Messages app for Android, designed to detect and blur images containing nudity. Initially tested in beta since April, the Sensitive Content Warnings feature is now rolling out more widely.
The feature requires users to be signed into a Google Account within the Messages app to function. When an image with potential nudity is detected, it will be automatically blurred. Users then have several options: they can access an educational resource explaining the risks of sharing nude images, block the sender, return to the main Messages screen, or choose to dismiss or view the image after an additional confirmation prompt.
Google has also implemented warnings for users attempting to send or forward nude images. Before the image is transmitted, a reminder about the risks will appear, requiring explicit confirmation to proceed.
For supervised accounts, such as those managed by parents through the Family Link app, the feature is enabled by default. Teens aged 13 to 17 without supervision can disable it via their Google Account settings. Adult users must manually opt in by navigating to Google Messages Settings, selecting Protection & Safety, and enabling the sensitive content warnings option.
Privacy is a key focus of this feature. Image processing occurs locally on the device using Android System SafetyCore tools, meaning no identifiable data or classified content is sent to Google’s servers. However, Google acknowledges that the system is not flawless—it may sometimes flag non-explicit images incorrectly or fail to detect actual nudity.
This update reflects Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance user safety while maintaining privacy in digital communications.