Google Pixel 9. Business Standard
Google is reportedly working on a new "AI Replies" feature for its Phone app on Pixel smartphones, which will use artificial intelligence to suggest responses during phone calls. This feature will work alongside the existing Contextual Call Screen, which already allows users to handle incoming calls without having to pick up. According to recent findings, strings of code in the beta version of the Phone by Google app hint at the development of this feature.
Currently, the Call Screen on Pixel phones enables users to respond to calls using suggested replies. For example, if someone calls to confirm an appointment, Google Assistant might offer responses like “confirm” or “cancel appointment.” The new AI Replies feature, however, is expected to take this a step further by providing more personalized, AI-generated responses based on the context of the conversation, powered by Google’s Gemini AI models.
The report suggests that this feature, called "Call Assist," will make use of the caller's input to generate smart replies automatically. Unlike the current Call Screen, which offers a few standard responses, the AI-powered replies are expected to adapt to different situations, offering more flexibility and variety in how users can interact with calls. This is especially useful for situations where users may not want to speak or pick up the phone.
What makes this upcoming feature stand out is that it will be powered by Google’s latest AI innovation, the Gemini AI models. These models are designed to provide more advanced AI capabilities and could offer users a broader range of options when responding to calls. Google has hinted that the feature will be optional, allowing users to choose whether to stick with standard replies or opt for the more sophisticated, AI-generated ones.
The AI Replies feature is anticipated to roll out in future updates for select Google Pixel smartphones as part of a Pixel feature drop. This suggests that the feature may not be available immediately but could arrive in one of Google’s regular software updates, which often include new tools and improvements specifically for Pixel devices.
In addition to this AI Replies feature, Google is reportedly preparing to launch the next version of its Gemini AI model, known as Gemini 2.0. This new AI model is expected to be introduced by December, positioning Google to compete with other major players in the AI industry, like OpenAI, which is also planning to release a new version of its AI model soon. Google’s continued focus on enhancing AI technology is evident in its development of Project Jarvis, an AI agent designed to automate online tasks like researching, purchasing products, and booking tickets.
