Google continues to enhance its Pixel lineup with AI-driven innovations. Among the standout features of the Google Pixel 10 series, launched on August 20 in India and global markets, is the Take a Message tool built into the Phone app. Initially assumed to be exclusive to the Pixel 10, Google has now confirmed that the feature is also making its way to older Pixel devices, reassuring long-time users that they won’t miss out on this convenient upgrade.
Read More: Microsoft Authenticator to discontinue password autofill — steps to set up a passkey before Aug. 1
What Is the ‘Take a Message’ Feature?
The Take a Message feature acts as a smart voicemail alternative. When a user is about to miss or decline a call, the Phone app offers to take a message on their behalf. The app then records the caller’s response, automatically transcribes it, and saves both the audio and text in the call history section. This allows users to review messages without dialing into voicemail or relying on third-party apps.
By integrating transcription and audio playback, Google aims to streamline missed-call handling. The feature also leverages Google’s on-device AI, ensuring that the process is fast, reliable, and secure.
Rollout Beyond Pixel 10
Google has officially announced that the Take a Message feature is coming to Pixel 4 and newer models. However, its availability is limited to select regions for now—specifically the US, UK, Ireland, and Australia. Within these regions, most carriers support the feature, with the exception of Dish.
Users of the Pixel 9 series have already begun receiving the update, and Google confirms that a broader rollout across the Pixel portfolio will follow in the coming days.
Compatibility With Pixel Watch
Interestingly, the feature isn’t limited to smartphones. Google has extended Take a Message to the Pixel Watch 2 and newer models. To use it, the smartwatch must be paired with a Pixel 6 or newer phone. This makes managing calls more seamless, especially when users are on the go and relying on their wearable devices.
How to Enable ‘Take a Message’
Activating the feature is simple, but it requires the latest version of the Google Phone app. Here’s how users can enable it:
- Open the Phone app on your Pixel device.
- Tap on More (three-dot menu) and go to Settings.
- Navigate to Take a Message and switch the toggle on.
For Pixel Watch users:
- Open the Google Phone app on the paired Pixel phone.
- Go to More > Settings > Take a Message.
- Toggle the feature to activate it on the smartwatch.
- Once enabled, the feature will automatically step in when calls are declined or missed.
User Experience: What Happens When a Call Comes In?
When someone calls a Pixel user with the Take a Message feature enabled, they will hear either a recorded greeting or a default Google greeting. The caller is then invited to leave a short message.
The recipient will see both the audio recording and a real-time transcription in the Recents tab of the Phone app. This eliminates the need to listen to long voicemails or deal with spam calls.
Privacy and Security
Google emphasizes that privacy remains at the core of this feature. All messages, both recordings and transcriptions, are stored locally on the device. This means user data is not sent to external servers, ensuring confidentiality.
Additionally, the feature has built-in spam detection. Calls identified as spam are automatically filtered out, and the user never gets disturbed. Importantly, this function works without internet or data connectivity, making it reliable in all circumstances.
Why the Feature Matters
Smartphones have evolved far beyond their role as communication tools. Today, they act as productivity hubs, wellness trackers, and digital assistants. Google’s Take a Message feature reflects this evolution. It provides:
- Convenience: No need to return every missed call or check voicemail.
- Speed: Instant transcription means users can skim the message quickly.
- Security: Local storage keeps messages private.
- Efficiency: Spam calls are blocked automatically.
For professionals, entrepreneurs, and even everyday users, this ensures better call management and less disruption.
Part of Google’s Larger AI Strategy
The Pixel 10 series highlights Google’s broader ambition to embed AI into daily smartphone use. Alongside Take a Message, the Pixel 10 also supports WhatsApp calls via satellite connectivity—a breakthrough for areas with poor mobile coverage.
Moreover, Google Photos now allows users to request AI-powered edits. These additions showcase how Google is weaving AI into communication, photography, and productivity, turning the Pixel ecosystem into a smart companion rather than just a smartphone.
Availability and Future Expansion
While the rollout is limited for now, Google has a history of expanding its features to wider markets once technical and regulatory hurdles are cleared. Industry insiders expect that Take a Message will eventually reach global Pixel users, potentially by early next year.
If Google extends the feature to non-Pixel Android devices through the Phone app, it could redefine how voicemail and call management are handled across the ecosystem.
Consumer Reactions
Early reactions from Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 users indicate strong approval. Many appreciate the simplicity of transcribed messages, while others value the spam-blocking ability. The combination of AI-powered efficiency and privacy-first design has positioned the feature as one of the most practical innovations in recent updates.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Google’s ‘Take a Message’ feature on Pixel phones?
It’s an AI-powered call management tool that records a caller’s message when you miss or decline a call. The Phone app then transcribes the message and stores both audio and text in the Recents tab.
Which Pixel models support the ‘Take a Message’ feature?
The feature is available on Pixel 4 and newer models, including the latest Pixel 10 series. It is also supported on Pixel Watch 2 and newer, when paired with a Pixel 6 or later.
In which countries is the feature available?
Currently, the feature is rolling out in the US, UK, Ireland, and Australia. More regions are expected to follow in future updates.
Do all mobile carriers support this feature?
Most major carriers in supported regions allow the feature, but Dish is an exception and does not support it.
How can I enable ‘Take a Message’ on my Pixel phone?
Update the Google Phone app to its latest version, go to More > Settings > Take a Message, and toggle it on.
Can I use ‘Take a Message’ on my Pixel Watch?
Yes. The feature works on Pixel Watch 2 and newer models, provided they are paired with a Pixel 6 or newer smartphone.
Are messages stored online or offline?
Messages remain private and stored locally on your device, ensuring security and privacy. They are not uploaded to external servers.
Conclusion
Google’s decision to extend the ‘Take a Message’ feature beyond the Pixel 10 series reflects its commitment to enhancing communication through AI-driven innovation. By making the tool available on older Pixel phones and Pixel Watches, Google ensures that more users can benefit from smarter, faster, and more secure call management. With local storage for privacy, automatic spam filtering, and easy accessibility, the feature is poised to become a practical alternative to traditional voicemail. As the rollout expands to more regions and carriers, Take a Message could transform how Pixel users worldwide handle missed calls and everyday communication.
