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Google Prepares Next-Generation AI Voicemail for Pixel Devices
Google has long been a trailblazer in integrating artificial intelligence into its Pixel smartphone series, giving users advanced calling features like Call Screening, Direct My Call, Hold for Me, and Call Notes. Now, Android enthusiasts have uncovered evidence of Google’s next major leap: an AI-crafted voicemail system that works seamlessly and entirely offline, designed to elevate the Pixel calling experience.
What Is the New “Call Message” Feature?
A recent APK teardown of the Google Phone app (version 184.0.785204977-publicbeta-pixel2024) reveals a feature codenamed "Beesly," internally known as “Call Message.” This new addition aims to transform how Pixel users handle missed or declined calls. Call Message automatically prompts callers to leave a message when you’re unavailable, then leverages on-device AI—believed to be Google’s lightweight Gemini Nano—to instantly transcribe and summarize the content right on your device.
That means you can access call audio, see a quick summary, and read the transcript directly from your phone’s Recents tab, all without an internet connection. Neither Wi-Fi nor mobile data is needed, ensuring privacy and reliability even in areas with limited connectivity. However, if the phone is powered down or out of service, traditional carrier voicemail will take over as usual.
Key Features of Call Message
- On-device AI processing: Keeps all transcripts and summaries private, requiring no server-side processing.
- Intelligent spam filtering: Filters out unwanted messages in real time.
- Trigger scenarios: Activates after missed calls, declined calls (from the answer screen or notifications), and rejections via connected Wear OS devices.
- Instant notification: Confirms when Beesly is recording and handling a message.
How Does It Compare to Apple’s Live Voicemail?
If this feature sounds familiar, that’s no coincidence. Call Message bears a striking resemblance to Apple’s Live Voicemail, which provides real-time transcription as someone leaves a message. However, Google’s take could set itself apart by offering not only live transcription but also AI-powered summaries—giving users a concise rundown of the conversation for even faster information access.
Both Google and Apple now harness on-device artificial intelligence to process voicemail data locally, prioritizing user privacy and data security. With Gemini Nano at its core, Google’s implementation may offer more advanced natural language processing and real-time capabilities.
Market Impact: Pixel 10 Exclusive and the Next Wave of AI Features
All signs point to Call Message debuting as an exclusive feature on the upcoming Pixel 10 series, expected to launch soon. The feature’s codename, “Beesly,” fits with Google’s tradition of reserving its most innovative AI tools for Pixel devices first. Historical precedents, like Hold for Me and Direct My Call, were similarly exclusive at launch, providing compelling reasons for Android fans to stick with or switch to Pixel.
The Phone app’s build tag (“pixel2024”) is further evidence that this feature is intended as a highlight of the 2024 Pixel lineup. While Call Message may initially be locked to the Pixel 10, there is a possibility it could roll out to other Pixel models in later updates, or be included in an upcoming Pixel Feature Drop.
Advantages and User Scenarios
- Privacy-first design: No voicemail data leaves your device, ensuring confidentiality.
- Real-time utility: Receive immediate summaries for critical missed or declined calls, making follow-ups faster and easier.
- Spam protection: AI-powered filtering streamlines voicemail management for busy professionals.
- Always-on convenience: Works even without network connectivity, ideal for travelers or those in remote areas.
Why This Matters: Raising the Bar for AI in Smartphones
The emergence of Call Message further cements Google's leadership in AI-driven calling features in the mobile space. By introducing advanced voice processing and real-time summaries, Google is making Pixel smartphones even more indispensable to tech-savvy users who demand both privacy and efficiency. Drawing inspiration from Apple but going a step further, the new AI voicemail solution could be a game-changer in how users interact with calls and manage their digital lives.
As we look forward to the Pixel 10 and beyond, innovations like Call Message showcase the increasing market relevance and competitive edge that Google’s AI-powered smartphones continue to deliver.
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