Google’s “Ask For Me” Will AI Schedule Your Oil Change

On Thursday, Google unveiled a new experimental AI feature intended for a limited group of users, known as “Ask for Me.” This AI assistant is designed to find pricing and appointment availability for local services and can automatically schedule appointments for you. Currently, it supports reservations for nail salons and automotive repair shops.

Accessible via Google Search Labs, Ask for Me activates when users search for nail salons or auto repair facilities. For instance, if you’re looking for a mechanic, the AI will ask questions related to the specific service you require, the vehicle’s make and model, and your availability for an appointment. Additionally, you will be prompted to input contact information, such as your phone number and email, so the AI can update you on its progress.

We’re testing right now with auto shops and nail salons, to see how AI can help you connect with businesses and get things done. pic.twitter.com/inf5hhj1BS

— Rose Yao (@dozenrose) January 30, 2025

Once the AI gathers the necessary information, it will initiate a call to the chosen business, introducing itself as a Google automated system to set up the appointment on your behalf. Having previously managed automotive repair shops for nearly ten years, I can attest that this feature may not be well-received by your mechanic.

Fortunately, businesses can decline participation by making a request during the initial call or via their Google Business Page. Additionally, Google has assured that there will be limits on the number of calls a business can receive through this feature within a specified timeframe, which aims to mitigate the potential for misuse and harassment.

This new offering builds upon the earlier Duplex technology, which Google initially rolled out for Pixel phone users in 2018. Duplex garnered significant acclaim, being described as “revolutionary” and heralded as “the beginning of something big,” as it employed AI—sometimes supplemented by human involvement—to make reservations at restaurants on behalf of users. Following that, Google introduced a similar Duplex on the Web functionality in 2019 but discontinued it by 2022. The mobile version has since become integrated into Google Assistant, available in 49 U.S. states and 16 other countries; however, the appointment booking and wait time updates are currently limited to the U.S.