The Google Phone app continues to evolve, enhancing its capabilities to combat the persistent issue of spam and scam calls. Recently, the app introduced a feature allowing users to report calls as either spam or scam, a functionality that has proven to be quite effective in blocking unwanted communications. Users can simply long-press on a call log entry to access the options for blocking or reporting, which then sends the information directly to Google without any additional context.
Enhanced Reporting Features on the Horizon
However, an upcoming update promises to refine this reporting process further. According to insights gleaned from an APK teardown, the Google Phone app is set to incorporate a more streamlined feedback mechanism specifically for scam calls. This enhancement will allow users to provide additional details when reporting a scam, thereby improving the overall effectiveness of the reporting system.
In the anticipated update, users will be prompted to answer specific questions regarding the nature of the scam. The feedback form may include options such as:
- What did the scammer ask for?
- Full name
- Download an app
- Electronic payment
- Passwords
- Not applicable
- Something else
- What did the scammer pretend to be?
- FBI
- Friend
- IRS
- Police
- Social Security Administration
- Not applicable
- Something else
For those selecting “something else,” a popup will appear, allowing for the entry of additional information. Google will review these responses, which could potentially lead to alerts for other users regarding the specific scam call number and its tactics.
New Lookup Functionality in Google Contacts
In addition to the enhanced scam reporting feature, the Google Contacts app is also set to receive an upgrade. A new Lookup button will be introduced for numbers not saved in the user’s contact list. This button, previously exclusive to the Phone app, will now be visible within the Contacts app, accompanied by a banner indicating that the user has navigated there from the Phone app.
While these features are not yet live, they signify Google’s ongoing commitment to improving user experience and safety in communication. As the tech giant continues to refine its applications, users can look forward to a more intuitive and secure way to manage their calls.
