Google says Gemini AI can now make calls and speak to people on your behalf

Google has announced the "Call for Me" feature for Gemini. According to the company, this allows the AI to call a business on your behalf to handle specific tasks. This includes navigating automated menus or speaking with staff. Gemini can also wait on the line for you-something most of us dislike doing ourselves.

What can Gemini's "Call for Me" feature do?

With "Call for Me," you can ask Gemini-via the mobile app-to call a business to handle various tasks. Whether it's checking a store's opening hours or inquiring about service prices, Google states that Gemini can now take care of it.

Google previously launched AI calling tools like Duplex and "Ask for Me," which offered similar functionality. However, "Call for Me" goes a step further. According to the company, this feature can also handle more complex requests, such as asking a hardware store if a specific tool is in stock or rescheduling an appointment.

During the call, Gemini can introduce itself and navigate automated menus. Furthermore, the AI is capable of continuing the conversation with the company after having waited on hold.

How do you use Gemini Call for Me?

To use this feature, you need to go to the Gemini app and start your prompt with "@Call for me." The company notes that you can provide specific details about what you want the AI to do, including dates, times, preferences, and alternative options.

An example cited on Google's support page reads: "Call [Restaurant Name] and book a table for two tomorrow at 7 pm."

Before Gemini places the call, you can look over a summary of what the AI will do. This includes the number it plans to dial and the information it will share. After reviewing the summary, you can make any changes if needed. Then you can approve the call. Let Gemini go ahead.

You can view a real-time transcript as the call unfolds and also listen to the audio. Google has also clarified that you retain control and can cancel the call or take over at any time. If you decide to take control, Gemini will inform the person on the other end of the line and exit the call.

It is worth noting that Gemini cannot make emergency calls or process payments on your behalf. Additionally, the AI cannot share sensitive personal information, such as passwords.

Who can use this feature?

For now, the Gemini Call for Me feature is limited to users over the age of 18 in the United States who own a Pixel 11 series device. This feature, currently in beta, is available only to those with a paid Gemini AI subscription. There are also daily limits on the number of calls Gemini can make, and for the time being, it can only call US phone numbers.

Google states that it is rolling out this new feature on a small scale because "real-world conversations have nuances" and it wants time to improve the feature before a wider rollout.