Google Phone app

AppWizard
March 14, 2025
Google is experimenting with a new user interface for its Phone app, potentially changing the way incoming calls are handled. The testing, conducted on the beta version v166.0.735169223, suggests a shift from the traditional up-and-down swiping mechanism to a side-to-side gesture for answering calls. The proposed interface includes a pill-shaped bar at the bottom of the screen, allowing users to drag an icon left to decline or right to accept a call, with a "Message" option available above the bar for sending a text if the call is declined. This redesign could affect not only Pixel devices but also various Android phones that use the Google Phone app. Previously, Google tested a different incoming call interface that resembled Apple's design, but it was not widely adopted. The timeline for the official integration of this new feature is uncertain.
AppWizard
February 3, 2025
Google is refining the Settings page for its Phone app in preparation for the segmented Settings menu design expected with Android 16. The update features a visually appealing layout with backgrounds for menu items organized under headers, enhancing visibility and usability. Rectangular sections for each menu item improve touch targets and overall user experience. This redesign was initially seen in the Android 15 Beta 3 update but was removed, only to be reinstated in the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 2 release, suggesting integration into Android 16. Screenshots show a light gray background in light theme and dark gray in dark mode, with support for dynamic theming based on user wallpaper. The redesign is not yet active in the current beta but is anticipated in future updates. Other Google applications may also receive similar enhancements as Android 16 approaches.
AppWizard
November 21, 2024
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 16, 2024
The Scam Detection feature, powered by artificial intelligence, is now available for beta testers of the Google Phone app in the U.S. for Pixel 6 and newer models. Users must manually enable this feature, which is off by default, through the app's settings. It continuously monitors incoming calls for potential scams and alerts users if a call is suspected to be a scam. The feature does not screen calls from saved contacts, and call content is not recorded or stored. If a call is identified as likely a scam, users receive a notification and can choose to continue or end the call. Google is collecting feedback from beta testers for future updates.
AppWizard
October 17, 2024
Google has introduced a Halloween-themed Audio Emoji feature for its Pixel phones, currently available in the beta version of the Google Phone app. This feature includes sounds like a sinister laugh, a shrieking cat, and thunder, and replaces the previous party sound. It was first introduced with the Pixel 8a and is expected to be rolled out to all users before October 31. The beta version of the app is identified as version 149.0.682953539-publicbeta-pixel2024.
AppWizard
June 15, 2024
Google's latest Pixel Feature Drop for June 2024 includes a new feature called Lookup in the Phone app, which simplifies the process of reverse-searching phone numbers. Lookup helps users determine whether missed calls are worth calling back by providing information about the origin of the call. This feature is currently available in the Phone by Google app beta and will be expanding to all users soon. Lookup can help users avoid phone scams and save time by verifying the legitimacy of unknown numbers before returning calls.
AppWizard
June 12, 2024
The latest Pixel Feature Drop update brought new features to Pixel devices, including the new "Lookup" option in the Google Phone app. This option allows users to quickly start a Google search for unknown numbers from received calls, saving time and providing immediate information about the origin of the call. The "Lookup" option is a shortcut in the call history of the Google Phone app and is being implemented on Pixel devices on the server side.
AppWizard
May 2, 2024
Google has introduced "Audio Emoji" in the Google Phone app for Android users, allowing them to send sound effects during calls to convey emotions and reactions. The feature is currently in beta and includes six unique sound effects. Users can activate Audio Emojis in their phone's settings and use them only in speaker mode. Google plans to release Audio Emojis to a wider audience in the future.
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