Google Assistant on Pixels can now screen urgent incoming calls
What's the story
Google is bringing an innovative feature for Google Assistant on Pixel smartphones that lets users ask if an incoming call from a contact is urgent.
Initially announced at the Made by Google event earlier this month, the feature is now being widely rolled out to compatible Pixel phones, encompassing older models as well.
This enhancement seeks to refine the existing call-screening capabilities and is only applicable when calls are from the user's contacts, not unknown numbers.
Details
How the "Ask if Urgent" feature works
Upon receiving a call from a contact, users can now select the "Ask if urgent" option on the incoming call screen.
Google Assistant will then courteously greet the caller with a message: "Hi, I'm a Google virtual assistant on a recorded line. The person you are trying to reach wanted me to check is it urgent?"
The Assistant will transcribe and display the caller's reply, after which users can choose whether to accept the call or request additional information.
What Next?
Rollout and compatibility with Pixel phones
The "Ask if Urgent" feature was initially showcased at the Pixel 8 launch event.
As reported by Mishaal Rahman on X, the rollout has commenced and encompasses older Pixel phones, not solely the recently launched Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro.
Users have observed the new option on a Pixel 7 Pro as well.