Google’s Pixel phones are getting some neat upgrades, especially in the area of voice calling. You don’t need the latest Pixel 10 to enjoy these new features. Many of them are rolling out to older Pixel models or even other Android phones using the Google Phone app. These small improvements can make a big difference in how you handle calls every day.

Customize Your Incoming Call Screen for Contacts

One of the coolest new features is called the Android Calling Card. It’s similar to the Contact Posters on iPhone but with fewer restrictions. With this, you can make specific contacts stand out by customizing how their calls look on your screen. You can add a photo, pick a background, and even choose the font and color of the text that appears when they call.

This feature is currently in a beta version of the Phone app, so it might not be available to everyone yet. You can try it out by joining the beta program, which is easy to do. Once you find it, you can select a contact, choose a photo, and create a personalized call screen for them. Every time they call, you’ll see that unique display, making it easier to recognize important contacts at a glance.

Google is making it so you can customize these Calling Cards for any contact, not just a select few. The feature shows up in the contact’s profile and on the incoming call screen. It’s a simple way to add a personal touch and stay organized, especially if you get lots of calls during the day.

Make Answering Calls Easier and Safer

Answering calls on Android usually involves swiping sideways, which can be tricky if you’re holding your phone with one hand or have unsteady hands. Google is fixing that by giving you more options. Now, you can choose to answer calls with a tap instead of a swipe, which is a game-changer for many users.

To enable this, open the Phone app’s settings and look for a setting called “Incoming call gesture.” If you don’t see it yet, don’t worry—Google is rolling out the feature gradually. When you find it, you can select whether you want to answer calls by swiping or simply tapping the screen. Switching to tap answers can make managing calls much easier, especially in situations where swiping isn’t practical.

This new option is available on Pixel phones and should also be coming to other devices using the Google Phone app soon. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in daily convenience and accessibility.

Enhanced Call Safety with Scam Detection

Another useful update is an added layer of scam detection for calls. Google’s Pixel Phone app already does a good job screening spam calls, but now, it’s stepping up in the fight against scam calls, especially those using AI voice-changing tech. This feature is particularly targeted at protecting users from deceptive or malicious calls.

Right now, scam detection is available only in the US and for Pixel 9 and newer models, as well as Pixel 6 and higher. It can identify suspicious call patterns and warn you before you answer, helping you avoid potential scams. This is especially important as scammers become more sophisticated, using AI to mimic real voices and trick users into revealing personal info.

While the feature is limited to Pixel phones for now, it’s part of Google’s broader effort to improve call security and user confidence. Expect more updates and wider availability in the future as the technology matures and more devices get the upgrade.

These updates show that even small changes in how your phone handles calls can improve your daily experience. From customizing how contacts appear to making answers easier and safer, Google is quietly adding features that can really help you stay connected without hassle or worry. Keep an eye out for these features to roll out to your device, and don’t hesitate to explore the Phone app’s settings to see what’s available now.

Inspired by

• https://www.computerworld.com/article/4042396/new-google-pixel-phone-features.html

Sources

• gmpg.org
• theintelligence.com
• wired.com
• theintelligence.com
• theintelligence.com