Source: WhatsApp
What you need to know
- WhatsApp continues to tackle the spread of hoaxes on its platform.
- A new feature will let users search the web for content in forwarded messages with the tap of a button.
- WhatsApp is bringing this to seven countries including Brazil, Italy, Ireland, Mexico, Spain, UK, and the U.S.
WhatsApp is rolling out a new feature that will make it more convenient to fact-check forwarded messages with just the click of a button.
The company announced the change on via its blog, saying:
Today, we're piloting a simple way to double check these messages by tapping a magnifying glass button in the chat. Providing a simple way to search messages that have been forwarded many times may help people find news results or other sources of information about content they have received.
This feature works by allowing users to upload the message via their browser without WhatsApp ever seeing the message itself.
WhatsApp's forwards have been criticized for being a fertile breeding ground for misinformation, even helping muddy the discourse around the COVID-19 pandemic in its early stages.
Writing on the danger of fast-spreading falsehoods, Android Central's Harish Jonnalagadda said:
WhatsApp forwards are particularly devastating because they mix factual information along with falsified details, and more often than not, it's hard to tell the difference between what's real and what's not.
WhatsApp didn't ban forwards, they did the next best thing in restricting them shortly afterward. With this move, it now becomes even easier for users to identify and fact-check a forwarded message — if they are so inclined.
The new search feature will be rolling out to seven countries including Brazil, Italy, Ireland, Mexico, Spain, UK, and the U.S. on iOS, Android, and the web.
Best Android Messaging Apps in 2020
More smartphone makers to follow Apple in ditching headphones from boxes
A recent DigiTimes report includes an indication that more smartphone makers will follow Apple's lead in ditching headphones from their smartphone boxes, a move that will benefit sales of true wireless products.
The MagSafe Charger may leave a circular imprint on leather iPhone cases
According to a new Apple Support document, the company is warning those who use a leather case with their iPhone of potential imprints.
Apple Stores get huge neon window dressing to celebrate iPhone 12 launch
Some Apple Stores now have some huge, neon window dressings as the company releases iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro to the world.
Protect your iPad Air 4 and add some personal flair with a great case
The iPad Air 4 is a powerful tablet that will let you do work, play games, and get creative. If you want to get the most out of your iPad Air 4, a well-designed case will go a long way.