What you need to know
Google has officially begun the rollout of its much-anticipated call-recording feature for Pixel phones, a development that has been eagerly awaited since its initial announcement in September. This feature is now available for Pixel 6 and newer models running on Android 14.
The Phone by Google app has been updated to include a dedicated Call Recording section, easily accessible under Settings → Call Assist. Once activated, users will notice a prominent button during calls, complete with a red recording indicator, ensuring that the recording process is both visible and straightforward. A convenient “Stop” button is also readily available for users to end the recording at any time.
Recordings are stored locally within the Home tab of the app, accompanied by a built-in player for easy access. This approach emphasizes privacy, as all recordings are kept on-device, minimizing concerns about data security.
As noted by 9to5Google, the feature’s availability is linked to the latest November Pixel Feature Drop and requires the Phone app to be updated. Some users have reported gaining access to the feature only after completing the system update, indicating that the rollout may not be uniform across all devices. It’s important to keep in mind that call-recording laws differ significantly by region, which may affect the feature’s availability. To address these legal considerations, Google has implemented safeguards such as audible alerts or announcements when recording begins, ensuring compliance with local consent regulations.
While call recording may not be revolutionary in the tech landscape, its seamless integration into the Pixel experience marks a significant improvement. Users can expect a more organized and reliable solution compared to the third-party applications they have relied on in the past, enhancing the overall user experience.