Google's old dream returns

Google tried to make its AI call businesses for you almost ten years ago with Duplex, which let Google Assistant book restaurant tables. That service shut down, but now Google is trying again with modern AI.

Call for Me launches on Pixel 11

On Thursday, Google announced Call for Me, an experimental beta feature exclusive to Pixel 11 smartphones in the US and in English. Users need a Gemini subscription and enrollment in the Phone by Google app's public beta.

What Gemini can do on your behalf

Gemini can call local businesses to ask if they stock items or schedule appointments like haircuts. You tell Gemini what you need, it introduces itself, has a conversation, navigates automated menus, and waits on hold. You can watch a live transcript and take over anytime.

Limits and how it handles numbers

Gemini won't call emergency services but can call specific numbers you provide. If your tattoo artist lacks a web presence, Gemini will search for a phone number or use one you give it. The assistant's voice matches Gemini Live, regardless of your preferred voice accent.

Part of Google's calling toolkit

Call for Me expands Google's smart calling features on Pixels and Android. The Phone app already screens calls, blocks robocalls, uses Hold for Me to alert you when a person answers, and has real-time Scam Detection to warn you of potential fraud.

Testing the limits of AI calls

Google acknowledges challenges: callers may hang up thinking it's spam, Gemini may struggle with accents, and it must know when to politely end calls. Google says it will test various cases to improve the feature across accents and noisy environments.

“That is exactly what we want to continue testing.”