Google tests Gemini feature that calls local businesses for you

In short: Google is rolling out a Pixel 11 preview feature that lets its Gemini assistant make phone calls to local businesses on your behalf.

What happened

Google announced an “early experiment” for the Pixel 11 that can hand off certain business phone calls to Gemini. Gemini is Google’s AI assistant, which is software that can understand and reply in everyday language.

With this feature, you can tell Gemini to call a business for tasks like making a reservation, checking if an item is in stock, or rescheduling an appointment. Google says you do not need to dial the number yourself. You start it from the Gemini app.

Gemini will place the call, introduce itself, work through automated phone menus (the “press 1 for sales” kind of system), and wait on hold. It will also speak with the person who answers. You can watch a live transcript, which is a written copy of the conversation as it happens, and you can take over the call at any time.

Google previously offered a “Call for me” feature that could contact local businesses to ask about product availability. The Verge notes that the older version did not include an option for the user to jump in and take control of the call.

Google says the new calling feature starts rolling out today as an early preview. It is limited to Gemini paid subscribers who are enrolled in the Phone by Google Public Beta on Pixel 11 in the US.

Why it matters

For many people, calling a business can mean long hold times and confusing phone menus. If this works as described, it is like having a helper who can wait on the line for you and summarize what happened, while you still keep the ability to step in when needed.

Source: The Verge AI