Google Contacts app Archives

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Google announces new security features for Android for protection against scam and theft

Google unveiled new security and privacy features for its Android platform, focusing on safeguarding calls, screen sharing, messages, device access, and system-level permissions. Key measures include blocking unsafe actions during calls with unknown contacts, restrictions on side-loading apps from unverified sources, and limiting accessibility permissions to prevent scams. Users on Android 6 or later will not be able to disable Google Play Protect, which scans for harmful applications. Enhanced screen-sharing protection includes reminders to stop sharing after calls and a warning screen for banking apps when sharing with unknown numbers. Google Messages will improve scam detection using on-device AI for various fraud types. Verification keys in the Google Contacts app will allow users to authenticate contacts, with end-to-end encryption for verified conversations. Identity Check protection requiring biometric authentication will be extended to more devices, and stricter controls on Factory Reset functions will be implemented. Google is also enhancing its Play Protect program to detect unsafe apps and strengthening Advanced Protection Mode for public figures, along with introducing a new Find My Hub feature.

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Google Contacts app looks a little different now, here’s what changed

Google has released version 4.49 of its Contacts app for Android, introducing several updates. A new card in the Organize tab displays the user's email address, total number of contacts, and the time since the last synchronization. An info icon explains that contacts sync automatically with the device and are accessible across Google services. The app now features a "Google Contacts sync settings" option for easier management of sync settings. Additionally, the account menu has been modified to require users to tap a chevron to view all signed-in accounts, creating a cleaner interface. Recent features also allow users to set emoji and monograms as contact pictures.

AppWizard

December 19, 2024

Google Contacts could streamline connected app video calls (APK teardown)

Google Contacts is set to enhance its video call functionality in version 4.46.53.705303683. Users will be able to set a default app for video calls by long-pressing the video call button, allowing for direct connections through their preferred application. Additionally, users can view all available calling options for a contact with multiple numbers by long-pressing the video call button. If a contact is unavailable on the selected app, a network bar icon will indicate that the call will be routed through the carrier.

AppWizard

November 21, 2024

Google Phone app could soon let you rat out that scam call (APK teardown)

The Google Phone app has introduced a feature that allows users to report calls as spam or scam, which effectively blocks unwanted communications. Users can long-press on a call log entry to access options for blocking or reporting, sending information directly to Google. An upcoming update will enhance this reporting process by allowing users to provide additional details when reporting a scam, including specific questions about the nature of the scam and what the scammer pretended to be. The Google Contacts app will also receive an upgrade with a new Lookup button for numbers not saved in the user's contact list, previously exclusive to the Phone app.

AppWizard

November 1, 2024

Goodbye to Android 8: Android Auto no longer works on older phones

Samsung has released an update for its Wallet/Pay app on the Galaxy Watch, now at version 5.1.82.20406. The update enhances user experience by improving navigation and functionality, resulting in increased speed and reliability for wallet access and payment processing. It also addresses issues from previous versions to improve stability and user-friendliness. Users can install the update by connecting their watch to a smartphone, navigating to the Galaxy Store, and checking for updates. Additionally, Google has introduced a new individual contacts Tile in the Google Contacts app, which may soon be available for Galaxy Watch users.

AppWizard

September 17, 2024

Google Contacts just gave its contact creation a fresh coat of paint

Google Contacts has introduced a new "Create contact" page in version 4.39.53 for Android users, featuring a streamlined and organized interface. The update retains essential features like adding a profile picture, first name, last name, and company details, while presenting key fields such as phone numbers and email addresses as pill-shaped buttons. The "Add phone" option is pre-selected but can be removed easily. Users can add notes and access additional fields like middle name, phonetic pronunciation, prefix, suffix, job title, and website through an "Add fields" button. The design improves usability by prioritizing essential information and enhancing visibility with a centered layout. The update is being rolled out gradually to Android users.

AppWizard

April 29, 2024

Google Contacts redesign makes adding new contacts more intuitive

Google Contacts has introduced a streamlined redesign for its Create Contact page in version 4.30 of the app. The new design emphasizes simplicity and efficiency, with four primary fields for contact information and a prominent "Favourite" button for marking contacts as favorites.