Google has rolled out a quiet update to its SafetyCore app on Android devices, expanding its scanning from photos to videos. This change, part of the October 2025 Google System Updates, aims to flag sensitive content on users’ phones without sending data to the company, but it has sparked fresh privacy worries among millions of users.
What Is SafetyCore and Why the Concern?
SafetyCore appeared on Android phones last year, often without clear notice, leading to widespread backlash. The app uses on-device AI to check images and now videos for explicit or harmful material, mainly to support features in apps like Google Messages.
Many users feel uneasy about this setup. They worry it could lead to broader monitoring in the future, especially with global debates on client-side scanning laws. For instance, Europe’s proposed Chat Control rules might force similar tech to scan messages before encryption.
Experts point out that while the scanning stays on the device, the lack of upfront consent bothers people. Privacy groups have called it a step toward more invasive tools, even if current uses seem limited.
How the New Video Scanning Works
The update hit in early October 2025, building on SafetyCore’s photo checks. Now, when you receive a video in Google Messages, the app can detect and blur explicit content if you turn on sensitive content warnings.
This feature warns users before they view flagged videos, much like Apple’s system in iMessage. Google says it protects against unwanted explicit material, such as in spam or scams.
However, not everyone wants this. Some see it as overreach, especially since SafetyCore installs automatically via Play Services updates. It takes up space and runs in the background, using resources like RAM.
Here are key details on what the scanning covers:
- Explicit images and videos in messages.
- On-device processing to keep data private.
- Optional alerts that users must enable.
Privacy Risks and User Reactions
Public outcry has grown on social media and forums since the update. People share stories of discovering the app and feeling their privacy invaded. One common complaint is that Google reinstalls it after deletion, making opt-out tricky.
Advocates argue this tech could expand to flag other content, like political material, under pressure from laws. Recent events, such as debates over encrypted messaging in the US and Europe, add to the tension. For example, similar scanning proposals faced rejection last year due to privacy fears.
On the flip side, supporters say it helps combat issues like child exploitation without off-device data sharing. Balancing safety and privacy remains a hot topic.
| Aspect | Details | User Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Scanning Type | On-device AI for photos and videos | No data leaves the phone, but constant checks use battery |
| Update Date | October 2025 | Affects most Android users via Play Services |
| Main App Affected | Google Messages | Warnings for explicit content in chats |
| Privacy Level | High, as processing is local | Concerns over potential future expansions |
Steps to Disable or Remove SafetyCore
You can take control by turning off related features or uninstalling the app. Start in your phone settings under Protection and Safety to disable sensitive content warnings in Google Messages.
For full removal, go to System Apps in your settings, find SafetyCore, and uninstall it. Keep in mind, future updates might bring it back, so check regularly.
If you want to avoid it altogether, consider custom ROMs or privacy-focused Android versions, though these require technical know-how.
What This Means for the Future
This expansion signals a trend toward more on-device AI monitoring. With billions of Android users, Google’s moves set standards for the industry. Watch for similar updates from other companies, as AI tools evolve.
Regulators are paying attention. In the US, recent hearings on tech privacy might lead to new guidelines. Users should stay informed to protect their data.
As this story develops, share your thoughts in the comments below. Have you noticed SafetyCore on your phone? Let others know your experience to help the community.
