Google Builds Fact-Checker That Scans Images For Their History Into Search

Google has quietly introduced a new feature known as ‘About this image.’ This new addition offers users a valuable window into the origin and history of images circulating on the internet.

Within Google Search, select a picture of interest, and you’ll find the option to explore further by clicking on the three dots discreetly positioned in the right-hand corner.

Once initiated, the ‘About this image’ tool reveals authenticated information about the photo, including its original publication date and any of its other online appearances.

Image via Google

It can also identify pictures created through artificial intelligence (AI). However, the original creator would have to opt-in for the system to allow the system to scan its metadata.

In today’s world, where misinformation has become prevalent, fact-checking has never been more important. This is where the primary utility of this feature becomes evident, as it is specifically designed to mitigate the spread of misinformation, particularly when images play a key role in news and events.

‘About this image’ is rolling out globally to all English users today.

Beyond this, Google has introduced software that automatically generates AI-driven descriptions of websites that don’t have a Wikipedia page or Google Knowledge Graph.

[via Engadget and 9to5Google, images via Google]