Google Messages will now warn users before they open potentially risky videos.

On-device scanning detects and blurs nude or explicit video content before you view it.

The latest Google Messages update will soon include a new video detection feature for all users. | Image credit – Android Authority

Once available, the feature will function similarly to image detection. Google Messages will scan videos for nudity, whether they are being sent or received. This process occurs entirely on the user's device without any uploads or sharing. The feature utilizes SafetyCore, an Android framework designed for detecting nudity in both photos and videos while ensuring data privacy.

The new safety feature can be enabled or disabled by the user. | Image credit – Android Authority

If Google Messages identifies a video as explicit, it will automatically blur the content, allowing the user to delete it before viewing. This is the same approach used for images, and extends the effort to create a safer, non-intrusive experience.

Apple offers a similar feature.

Apple’s iMessage has a feature called Communication Safety, which blurs explicit content and provides safety advice, mainly for children’s accounts. Similar to Google's system, Apple's detection is done directly on the device to maintain user privacy.

A key difference is the target user: Apple's feature is designed for minors, while Google's system is for both adults and teens, and settings are automatically adjusted based on age.

A subtle but significant improvement

While not the most eye-catching update, it is an important one. Google’s Sensitive Content Warnings help reduce unwanted exposure, especially for younger users who spend a lot of time online. Since all detection is done locally, there is no risk of media being sent to Google’s servers.