In recognition of International Fact-Checking Day, Google announced the expansion of its Search features aimed at helping users verify information, images, and sources online.
Senior Product Manager at Google, Nidhi Hebbar via a blog post highlighted four key features designed to assist users in quickly evaluating content and gaining essential context to discern the validity of information encountered online.
The first feature, “About this result,” offers users insights into websites listed in search results. By clicking on the three dots next to a website link, users can access the “more about this page” tab, providing valuable information such as how Wikipedia describes the site and feedback from other online sources.
“This feature has been expanded to include 40 additional languages globally, including French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese,” Ms Hebbar noted.
The tech giant has also streamlined the process of fact-checking with its second feature, allowing users to easily find fact checks from independent, authoritative sources directly within search results.
Relevant fact-check articles may appear as previews, offering snippets to provide quick context about specific claims.
For journalists and fact-checkers, Google has introduced the Fact Check Explorer, which facilitates in-depth investigation into various topics.
“This feature, previously in beta, now includes the ability to analyze images by uploading or pasting their links into the tool. Moreover, through the Fact Check Tools API, journalists and fact-checkers can seamlessly integrate relevant fact checks into their own websites.”
Lastly, the firm has enhanced its “About this image” tool, enabling users to assess the background and context of images found online.
“By clicking on the three dots next to an image in Google Images results or accessing the “more about this page” tab in search results, users can uncover vital information such as the image’s history, usage by other sites, and metadata provided by image creators and publishers.”
This feature, initially launched in English globally last year, is now available in 40 additional languages.
These Search features empower users to verify the accuracy of information and images encountered online, fostering a more informed digital environment.
With tools designed to enhance transparency and provide context, Google aims to equip users with the resources needed to navigate the vast landscape of online content effectively.