November 13, 2024 at 01:07PM
Google introduces two new features for Pixel devices: an AI-powered scam detection system that identifies potential scammers during calls and a real-time threat detection in Google Play Protect to alert users about unsafe apps. These features enhance Android security by analyzing conversations and scanning for harmful applications.
### Meeting Takeaways
1. **New AI-Powered Scam Protection Feature**:
– Google is introducing an AI-based scam detection system for Google Pixel devices that monitors phone calls in real time.
– The system detects patterns typical of scams, such as impersonation or urgent calls related to breach alerts.
– Users are notified when a potential scam is detected, with the option to end the call.
– Initial rollout is for English conversations and is available on Google Pixel 6 and newer models in the US, with plans to extend to more Android devices in the future.
2. **Real-Time Threat Detection in Google Play Protect**:
– A new feature called “Live Threat Detection” has been added to Google Play Protect, enhancing real-time monitoring for harmful apps.
– The system assesses behavioral signals associated with sensitive permissions and app interactions to identify threats.
– Users will receive immediate alerts for harmful apps, enabling prompt action to safeguard their devices.
– Initially focused on detecting stalkerware, plans indicate future detection capabilities for various malware types, including spyware and banking trojans.
3. **User Control and Privacy**:
– Both features are designed with user control in mind; the scam detection function is off by default and requires user activation.
– The processing for both detection systems occurs on-device, prioritizing user privacy through Google’s Private Computer Core technology.
4. **Future Developments**:
– Google plans to expand these safety features to a broader range of Android devices beyond Pixel in the coming months, as well as enhance detection capabilities for more types of dangerous applications.
### Action Items
– Ensure communication of these new features to the relevant teams for further rollout planning.
– Monitor user feedback on these features to facilitate future updates and enhancements.