WhatsApp begins testing AI content label feature for Android channels

WhatsApp is introducing a new labeling feature to more clearly identify AI-generated content shared on channels. The feature, which has begun testing on the Android side with WhatsApp beta version 2.26.34.5, aims specifically to ensure that channel administrators inform followers about the use of artificial intelligence in the images and videos they share.

With the new system, channel administrators will be able to mark on a post whether a piece of media was entirely generated by artificial intelligence or edited using AI tools. It is noted that this step is also linked to transparency and legal compliance requirements in certain countries.

Labeling will not be limited to content prepared with Meta AI. Media created or edited with third-party AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, or similar will also be covered under this scope. Thus, users will have clearer information about the production process of the content they see.

Channel administrators will be able to add the label manually by long-pressing on the relevant post and selecting the “Add AI content label” option from the menu that appears. It is also reported that WhatsApp may automatically place the label using algorithms designed to detect AI-generated content.

The label will be displayed in the bottom left section of the post, alongside information such as the view count and timestamp. One of the notable aspects of the feature is that the label is permanent: once an AI content label is added, it cannot be removed later.

The feature, which is currently open to a limited number of beta users, is expected to be rolled out to a wider Android user base in the coming weeks through updates to be released via the Google Play Store.