The Google Phone app, the default dialer of many Android smartphones, and the Pixel lineup have been updated. The app has traditionally received the latest feature boosts, like Festive Audio Emojis; this next update should offer a more functional and consumer-friendly experience.
Filters for Easier Call Management
The call log has a new filter system in a beta version of the Google Phone app (version 159.0.718038457-publicbeta-pixel2024). These filters appear as a horizontal row at the top of the call log, allowing users to sort calls by the following categories:
- All
- Missed
- Contacts
- Non-Spam
- Spam
Missed calls filter works, but the groundwork points towards the full rollout.
How This Improves Usability
The existing Google Phone app requires users to navigate through a somewhat cumbersome process to filter calls:
- Open the Recents tab.
- Tap the three-dot menu.
- Go ahead and select Call history to see missed calls or other filters.
In the old design, we allow users to switch to filters directly from the Recents tab, which puts those base categories right before you.
Competing with Apple’s iPhone Dialer
The new filters that Google added to Android’s dialer app could help Android users reach feature parity with the iPhone’s feature-rich dialer: You can seamlessly see all the calls you are currently on and missed calls in the iPhone’s Recents tab. Its long-awaited feature injects additional functionality and convenience into the Google Phone app, filling a gap in recent years.
Potential for Further Enhancements
The outgoing calls filter is not in the beta version but can be added later in future updates. Google is unclear if it will keep the Call history option in the Recents tab menu since the new filter is designed to be faster and give access to its functionality.
When to Expect the Update
As the filters were manually triggered in the beta version, a public release might be a few weeks or months away. The level of progress in development puts a launch on the timeline.
Final Words
Adding call filters to the Google Phone app would significantly improve the quality of life for the Android crowd. This update simplifies call management and pares the interface, making the Google Phone app more competitive and user-friendly.
You can see these features in action when you stay tuned for the official release. If you want to learn more about Google’s Android 16 to Bring Game-Changing Lock Screen Updates, Read on.
Ethan Cole is a tech aficionado dedicated to exploring the latest innovations and gadgets, providing reviews and insights to keep you updated in the tech world.
