Google has implemented a new default setting that blurs explicit imagery in its Search results globally. This feature, part of Google’s SafeSearch settings, is designed to prevent users from inadvertently encountering content such as pornography, violence, and gore.
Rollout and Functionality
The new setting, which Google announced in February, began its global activation in August 2023. The company confirmed its availability to all users in a blog post. This change was initially introduced as part of Google's Safer Internet Day event, where it was described as "a new online safety feature."
The blur filter applies to all users, regardless of whether they are signed into a Google account. Previously, SafeSearch was the default for signed-in users under the age of 18, a setting implemented in August 2021. This earlier change coincided with increased scrutiny from Congress regarding the potential negative impacts of tech services on children.
When explicit images appear in search results, they will now be automatically blurred. Google defines "explicit" content as pornographic, violent, and gory images. The filter's purpose is to help individuals and families protect themselves from accidentally viewing such material.
The SafeSearch feature operates exclusively within Google Search results. It does not block or blur content found on other search engines or websites visited directly by users.
User Control and Settings
Users who do not have a supervised account have the option to adjust or disable the SafeSearch blurring feature. Charity Mhende, a Google spokesperson, stated that users whose accounts are not managed by a parent, school, or administrator can change their SafeSearch setting at any time.
Upon encountering blurred images for the first time, users will see a label at the top of the search results page indicating "SafeSearch blurring is on." Adjacent to this label, a "manage setting" button will direct users to the filter's controls. Here, three options are available:
- Filter: This option blocks all explicit images, text, and links.
- Blur: This option blurs explicit content while still displaying associated text and links.
- Off: This option shows all search results, including explicit content, without blurring or filtering.
If an explicit image is blurred, users can choose to view it by clicking a "view image" button. Alternatively, they can select the "manage setting" button to modify the filter or turn it off entirely. The setting is the new default for users who did not previously have the SafeSearch filter enabled.
The implementation of this blurring feature is part of broader updates Google introduced earlier in August, which aim to enhance user control over personal information, privacy, and online safety. These updates also included making it easier for users to locate and remove personal information from search results and revising policies concerning personal explicit images.
Key Facts
- Google has activated a new default setting that blurs explicit imagery in Search results globally.
- The feature is part of Google’s SafeSearch settings and applies to all users.
- "Explicit" content includes pornographic, violent, and gory images.
- Users without supervised accounts can adjust or disable the blurring feature through their settings.
- The filter only affects Google Search results and does not apply to other search engines or direct website visits.
- The rollout was completed in August 2023, following an announcement in February.
