Google Launches Verified Calls to Combat Spam on Android
Google introduces a new Verified Calls feature for Android that displays a business name, logo, and call reason to help users avoid spam. The system verifies caller information in real-time and deletes private data shortly after the check.
Google introduces a new Verified Calls feature for Android phones that helps legitimate businesses connect with customers by displaying their brand name, logo, and reason for calling. This system combats the massive rise in spam calls, which includes the 61.4 billion unwanted calls U.S. consumers received in 2019 alone. By showing a verification symbol on the incoming call screen, Google gives users confidence in who is on the other end of the line.
To make this work, participating businesses send Google their phone number, the customer's number, and the specific call reason through approved partners like Vonage, Bandwidth, and Five9. When the call comes in, the Google Phone app compares the incoming information with the data Google receives from the business. If the details match, the app displays the call as verified, and Google protects user privacy by deleting the customer's phone number and call reason within minutes of the verification process.
The feature is enabled by default in the Google Phone app and works on select Android Pie and higher devices, including flagship models from Samsung and LG. Google runs a pilot test before this launch and finds that verification increases the chances of a user answering the phone. The app comes pre-loaded on many Android smartphones and becomes available for download on additional devices later this week.