Google developers have announced five upcoming features for the Messages app, focusing on enhanced security and privacy. These improvements will simplify detecting fraudulent messages, warn users about malicious links, and more.
Improved Fraud Detection and Spam Protection
One major update is the improved fraud detection feature. Leveraging machine learning, the system will analyze message content to identify potential fraud attempts. Suspicious messages will be automatically marked as spam, and users will receive notifications. Notably, all message processing will occur directly on the user’s device without sending data to external servers. This feature is currently available to a limited number of beta users who have activated spam protection.
Link Warnings and Blocking Foreign Spam
A new warning system will alert users about dangerous links. If a message with a link is received from an unknown sender, the app will notify the user. This feature is undergoing testing in India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, with plans to expand it globally by the end of the year.
To further combat spam, Google will introduce an option to hide messages from unknown numbers in other countries automatically. These messages will be sent directly to the “Spam and Blocked” folder. After initial testing in Singapore, this feature will roll out more widely.
Inappropriate Content Alerts and Contact Verification
The Messages app will also offer protection against inappropriate content, such as erotic images. Any such image will appear blurred, requiring users to confirm viewing. This function will activate automatically for users under 18 years of age. Google reassures users that all messages are encrypted, meaning neither Google nor third parties can access personal content. This feature will be available on Android 9 and later versions within the next few months, notes NIX Solutions.
Additionally, Google is developing a contact verification feature to ensure the authenticity of message senders. Users will be able to verify contacts via QR codes or number comparisons. This feature will appear next year in the Messages app and other Android messaging apps.
We’ll keep you updated as these features roll out to ensure a safer messaging experience for all users.