WhatsApp is working on a new feature for channels on its platform. This tool, currently under development, will allow channel administrators to clearly label AI-generated media. The rule requiring disclosure of AI-generated content, which has become a legal requirement in some countries, is the main motivation behind WhatsApp’s development of this feature.

This work, detected on WhatsApp beta Android version 2.26.31.1, is seen as part of Meta’s strategy to increase content transparency. Currently in testing, the feature aims to support platform security by allowing users to understand whether the media content they encounter in channels is real or AI-generated.

Content transparency on digital platforms is becoming a global legal requirement.

WhatsApp Continues to Improve Transparency Tools

WhatsApp, which previously introduced a special labeling system for paid collaborations, is now expanding this transparency initiative with AI-generated content. Channel administrators who want to indicate that a piece of content they share was generated by AI can use the “Add AI Content Label” option from the menu that appears when they press and hold on the post. This label will appear in the post bubble, helping followers clearly understand the source of the content. It is anticipated that once added, the label cannot be removed.

Text Content Excluded

It is stated that this new system WhatsApp is working on does not cover all types of content. In particular, texts created with AI-powered writing tools are planned to be exempt from this labeling requirement. The application has focused entirely on media documents because it is much more difficult to detect realistic photos or images compared to text. This distinction aims to provide access to accurate information without compromising user experience.

Realistic images generated with AI must be labeled to prevent users from being misled.

Labeling Covers All AI Tools

This developed system is not limited to Meta’s own AI tools. Channel managers will be obliged to use this label if there is an AI basis, regardless of which tool was used to produce the content. This rule, which applies to all media documents produced through ChatGPT, Google Gemini, or other platforms, shows that the platform follows a transparency policy that encompasses the entire AI ecosystem.

Feature Being Prepared for Android and iOS

Currently only available in Android beta updates, this feature is not yet available for general use or to all beta testers. WhatsApp plans to offer this system to both Android and iOS users in future updates. No official date has yet been given for when the system will be fully launched. The company aims to integrate this feature in the most efficient way by taking user feedback into account.

Do you think tagging AI-generated content on digital platforms is a sufficient step to increase social media safety? You can share your thoughts and expectations on this matter with us in the comments section.