A beta version of Google Phone’s Expressive Calling is now rolling out. This feature allows urgent calls to interrupt Do Not Disturb modes, enhancing communication for users in critical situations.
New Expressive Calling feature launched
Beta available for Google Phone users
Urgent calls can bypass Do Not Disturb
Visual and haptic feedback default on
Both parties need beta version 203
Missed calls show urgent label
This news is about Google Phone introducing a feature called Expressive Calling to help people communicate better in urgent situations.
Details of the Expressive Calling Feature
Google is now rolling out its new beta feature, Expressive Calling, aimed at improving call communications. Once this is enabled in your settings, it allows urgent calls to come through even if your phone is set to Do Not Disturb. Users can find this option under Phone Settings > General.
If both the caller and recipient are using the beta version (203), an “urgent” alert will appear during the call, complete with an animated siren emoji. This visually signifies to the recipient the urgency of the call.
Setting Up and Using the Feature
To use this feature, make sure both parties have updated to version 203 of the Phone app. Once you start a call, both will see a prompt asking if they want to mark the call as urgent. If it’s missed, the call history will highlight this with an “urgent” label.
Previously, some changes like a shorter bottom bar and a “Keep portrait mode” setting were delayed, but they’re expected to be available in the stable version soon.
Upcoming Improvements and User Consideration
This launch is exciting, but current limitations exist. Right now, not all users have access to the latest updates, although the new version is in the stable channel.
Luca Fischer is a senior technology journalist with more than twelve years of professional experience specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and consumer electronics. L. Fischer earned his M.S. in Computer Science from Columbia University in 2011, where he developed a strong foundation in data science and network security before transitioning into tech media.
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