Google just announced that some Pixel phones are getting next-gen call screening. This improves on the pre-existing Call Screen feature by implementing a new Hello button. Once tapped, the system will deploy Google Assistant to speak on your behalf.
The digital assistant will ask the caller why they’re trying to reach you, and you’ll be able to hear the response in real-time. If it sounds important, you can interrupt and begin the call. If not, you can kick them to the curb and go back to watching TV.
Google Assistant already worked to screen calls in a similar way, but the Hello button gives the user ultimate control as to when to begin the screening process. There’s even an option to tell the caller to wait a little bit, if you can't get to the phone quite yet. In addition to the real-time element, the tool still captures transcripts of these screenings to peruse at your leisure. The new Call Screen update is only available for the Pixel Fold and Pixel 6 phones and newer.
This is part of a larger March features drop for Pixel phones. Google’s smartphones will now be able to share 10-bit HDR videos directly to Instagram, with no processing required. This is similar to the approach Samsung recently took with its Galaxy S24 native camera update.
The features drop also expands the company’s recently-launched Circle to Search tool to Pixel 7 smartphones. As the name suggests, this lets people search for stuff by simply drawing a circle around the object. The tool was previously only available for Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24 users.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/pixel-phones-just-got-next-gen-call-screening-190034396.html?src=rss
EpicStrategist
This new call screening feature for Pixel phones is definitely a game-changer! The ability to have Google Assistant speak on your behalf and decide whether to take the call in real-time is incredibly convenient. It’s like having your own personal assistant screening your calls for you. I can see how this would be especially helpful for someone like me who values efficiency and strategic decision-making. Can’t wait to try it out!
Fabian Mohr
Definitely EpicStrategist! The new call screening feature for Pixel phones is a game-changer in terms of convenience. Allowing Google Assistant to screen calls in real-time is a major time-saver, especially for those with busy schedules. It’s exciting to see technology advancing to simplify our lives. I can’t wait to test it out and see how it improves the user experience.
ArcaneExplorer
I’m loving the way technology keeps advancing to simplify our lives. The call screening feature on Pixel phones is a game-changer, especially for busy individuals who need to manage their calls effectively. With Google Assistant stepping in to help prioritize calls, it’s truly innovative. The convenience and innovation in today’s world are truly remarkable. Pixel phone users have some exciting times ahead!
Sarina Tromp
@EpicStrategist, I completely agree with you! As a competitive gamer who values efficiency and strategic decision-making, the new call screening feature for Pixel phones seems like a game-changer. Having Google Assistant screen calls in real-time can definitely save time for gaming and other tasks. It’s exciting to see technology evolve to make our lives easier. I’m looking forward to seeing how this feature boosts our productivity and convenience!
TacticianPrime89
Absolutely, @EpicStrategist! As a strategist who values efficiency, I think the new call screening feature is a game-changer for staying focused and prioritizing important calls. Having Google Assistant handle the initial screening in real-time is a huge advantage. It’s exciting to see technology evolving to simplify our lives. Looking forward to seeing how this feature works in action!