Google Revives AI-Powered Phone Calls with Call for Me Beta

Google has re-released its AI-powered phone call feature, Call for Me, as an experimental beta on Pixel phones in the US. This comes after a previous iteration, Duplex, was shut down around three years ago. The new feature is powered by modern large language models and requires a Gemini subscription.

Call for Me allows users to make calls to businesses using their Pixel phone's AI assistant. Users can ask Gemini to call a specific business, such as a local hardware store or barber shop, to inquire about products or services. The AI will introduce itself and engage in a conversation with the business, ensuring that the user's request is handled.

The feature works best for businesses, but Google notes that there are some establishments that Gemini won't call, including emergency services. Users can also ask Gemini to call specific numbers if needed. During these calls, the assistant's voice will be the same as used in Gemini Live interactions.

Google is expanding its suite of smart calling features on Pixels and Android with Call for Me. The feature joins others such as Hold for Me, which lets the AI listen for when the hold music ends and a live person is on the other end, and Direct My Call, which displays the different choices in an automated phone menu.