Google is reportedly enhancing the Call Screen feature on Pixel phones with a new addition: AI Replies. According to recent reports, this upcoming feature will suggest smart responses based on a caller’s real-time responses, moving beyond the standard replies currently available. Here’s what we know so far about this exciting feature and what it could mean for Pixel users.
AI-Powered Responses for Call Screening
Pixel’s Call Screen feature already allows Google Assistant to answer calls on behalf of the user and ask why the call was placed. Currently, Call Screen supports contextual replies, where users can select predefined responses if they choose not to answer. For instance, if the caller says the call is to confirm a doctor’s appointment, the user can simply confirm or decline without picking up.
With the new AI Replies feature, Call Screen will reportedly analyze the caller’s words more closely to provide more nuanced responses. The feature, internally codenamed “Dobby,” is expected to be powered by Google’s Gemini Nano, a lightweight version of its large language model (LLM), which is designed for on-device processing. This AI capability will allow Pixel’s Call Screen to adapt responses in real time, making interactions feel more natural and personalized.
The Technology Behind AI Replies
An APK teardown by Android Authority and findings from 9to5Google reveal that this feature is in development but not yet publicly available. Strings of code from the Pixel Phone app hint at an LLM-driven assistant capable of handling more complex caller interactions. This could potentially allow the Call Screen feature to manage calls that include detailed instructions or complex inquiries, areas where simpler AI responses often fall short.
The technology appears to be part of Google’s larger AI strategy for Pixel devices, utilizing AI models optimized for mobile processing. While Gemini Nano is likely to power the feature, there is speculation that Google may employ additional machine learning tools tailored specifically for conversational AI.
Expected Availability
Google has not yet announced a release date for AI Replies in Call Screen. Given that the feature is still in development, it may be some time before it rolls out to users. For now, the standard Call Screen functionality will continue as is, but Pixel users can anticipate a more advanced call management experience in future updates.
This AI-powered evolution of Call Screen could reshape how we handle phone calls, giving users seamless control over incoming interactions without ever needing to pick up the phone.
