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Google is taking significant steps to protect Pixel users from scammers. Starting in March, it will roll out new scam detection capabilities within the Phone by Google and Google Messages apps, powered by artificial intelligence.
A recent update on the Google Store revealed that this new feature is designed to recognize conversation patterns typically associated with scams.
As Google explains, “Your phone can utilize on-device processing to pinpoint conversation cues commonly linked to scammers, such as a supposed ‘bank representative’ urgently requesting money transfers, gift card payments, or sensitive details like PINs and passwords.”
When such suspicious activity is detected, users will receive an instant alert stating, “Suspicious activity detected for this call.” They will then have the option to choose between “End call” or “Not a scam.”
Similarly, users will find that the scam detection feature in Google Messages functions in a comparable manner.
As reported by 9to5Google, this feature aims to shield users from dubious text messages that may appear innocuous but could ultimately lead to fraud. Messages regarding package deliveries or enticing job offers are among the most common offenders.
Any identified scam messages will be automatically sorted into the “Spam & Blocked” folder.
The scam detection function for the Phone by Google app was initially introduced in a beta version last November, with the beta for Google Messages launching a month prior.
These advanced scam detection features utilize Google’s Gemini Nano AI model on the Pixel 9 series, while earlier models, including the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, and Pixel 8, rely on other Google machine learning models.
Launched in late 2023, Gemini Nano represents Google’s push to enhance mobile technology with advanced AI capabilities. This innovative on-device AI model is engineered for efficiency, allowing complex tasks to be executed without relying on cloud services. By focusing on local processing, it prioritizes user privacy while delivering quicker and more responsive interactions.
Noteworthy features of Gemini Nano include enhanced text processing abilities, smart replies, summarization, and improved grammar correction. The model also expands accessibility features and enables real-time, on-device scam detection during calls.
A key characteristic of Gemini Nano is its multimodal capability, allowing it to interpret and process diverse information types, such as images and sounds. This sophisticated model is uniquely integrated into the Pixel 9 series and is driven by the Google Tensor G4 chip. Its local operation minimizes latency and safeguards sensitive user data.
These two exciting updates are anticipated to be part of the March Pixel Feature Drop.
