Google is reportedly testing a new feature called AI Replies for the Call Screen functionality on its Pixel smartphones. Currently under development, this feature aims to improve call screening by generating more personalized and dynamic responses based on what the caller says.

Call Screen, an existing feature in Google’s Pixel Phone app, uses Google Assistant to answer incoming calls, screen the caller and display their response on the screen. However, with AI responses, the system should go even further by providing intelligent responses that better reflect the caller’s intent.

According to Android Authority, Google leverages advanced AI technology to analyze caller responses in real-time, generating relevant responses for Pixel users to choose from. This would go beyond current standard responses, making interactions more natural and flexible.

The feature would be powered by an AI model, which Google may internally call “Dobby.” It also appears that Gemini Nano, a large language model that already powers some AI features in the Pixel 9 series, could play a key role in providing these AI-generated responses.

The current call screening feature, available in some regions but not yet in India, has proven useful for screening unknown callers or handling calls without the user picking up. It even offers a pop-up reply feature that allows users to send simple replies when they prefer not to respond.

For example, if an incoming call is about scheduling an appointment, Call Screen can offer the user responses such as confirm or decline. However, this functionality is somewhat limited, particularly when the caller’s intent is more complex or requires a nuanced response.

Google’s announced development of AI Replies aims to address this limitation, enabling more adaptive interaction by using machine learning to “understand” the caller’s words and provide relevant, personalized responses.

This feature could be particularly useful in business or customer service scenarios where quick, context-specific responses are needed. Additionally, intelligent AI-generated responses can improve user experience by saving time and reducing the need for manual responses.

The AI ​​model called “Dobby” in the code strings discovered by 9to5Google could be an experimental model, although some believe Gemini Nano could handle actual processing. Gemini Nano is a smaller-scale version of Google’s larger Gemini LLM, known for its ability to understand and generate contextually relevant answers.

Although Google has not officially confirmed the release date for AI Replies, reports suggest that the feature could soon be tested more widely. With these advancements, Google is positioning the Pixel Call Screen to become a more interactive and useful tool, potentially setting a new standard for AI-driven call management. As new AI capabilities emerge on Pixel devices, the possibilities for integrating AI into everyday smartphone use continue to be expanded.