The Google Phone app could soon let you record incoming and outgoing calls. The newest version 44 of the default dialer app for Google Pixel smartphones started rolling out last night, and according to an APK breakdown from XDA Developers, it has the call recording feature fully baked in and functional. The folks at XDA could get it working without any hassle.
Once Google rolls out this new feature, you’ll see a standard-looking “Record” button next to the “Hold” button every time a call is initiated, either incoming or outgoing. Tapping the button will start recording your conversation with the other party. The button icon will change to indicate that the call is being recorded.
You’ll be able to stop the recording by tapping that button again, or by disconnecting the call, of course. The recorded voice clip will remain as a part of that call’s history.
It will be accessible directly from the call log. You’ll be able to play it, share it, and even export it as a .wav file.
Complying with the US laws, which require that all parties are aware when you are recording a telephonic call, the Google Phone app’s call recording feature comes with a disclaimer which you’ll have to agree to before you can begin recording for the first time.
“When using the call recording feature, you are responsible for complying with applicable laws related to the recording of calls. Please be aware that many jurisdictions require the consent of both parties for such recording,” the disclaimer reads.
Further, a pre-recorded voice clip will announce each time that recording has begun or ended. The other party will hear “this call is now being recorded” when you begin recording the call, and “call recording has now ended” when you stop recording.
Call transcription coming too
Along with call recording, the Google Phone app could be getting the ability to transcribe those voice conversations as well. The feature might use the technology similar to Google’s existing Recorder transcription app.
Call recording transcription is not functional yet, but 9to5Google could find a related string in the latest APK. Though details are slim for now, it does confirm that something of that sort is in the works. If and when Google implements it is another matter.
The folks at 9to5Google could also establish that the voice that speaks out the notification that call recording has begun is the Google Assistant. Apparently, the voice clip is only played to the call recipient.
The Google Phone app’s call recording feature is compatible only with devices running on Android 9 Pie or newer. It’s unclear when these features will be implemented and whether they’ll be limited to certain devices and regions.
Google’s Pixel smartphones should certainly be getting them, though Xiaomi also recently announced that it will pre-install the Google Phone app in its smartphones in Europe.
