Google Tests New “Lookup” Feature to ID Unknown Callers
Google is set to roll out an interesting new feature dubbed “Lookup” on its Pixel Phone app that allows users to search the web for the unknown number right from the call screen.
The new Lookup button in the Google Phone app beta v127.0.620688474 was first spotted by X user AssembleDebug, who tipped off PiunikaWeb. The new button appears alongside options, like “Add contact” and “Block,” visible when you select an unidentified number in the call log”s Recents tab.
Upon tapping, the Lookup button opens a list of applications capable of conducting web searches, including the Google Search option. With the number already input into the search bar, users can navigate the web to identify the source of the unknown number.
The Lookup button isn’t a brand-new feature, rather, Google Pixel, in its March 2024 Feature Drop, has already introduced a similar “Number Search” button in Japan. The Lookup option seems to be an extension of this feature for global users.
Google’s Phone app already has the Caller ID and Spam Protection feature, but with the new Lookup option, users can easily identify calls from unknown businesses.
The capability does not extend to the numbers of private individuals but rather businesses with an online presence. So, we can say that it’s a long way before Lookup can replace caller ID apps like Truecaller. However, PiunikaWeb notes that “it’s possible that we might see integration with such apps once the feature goes live.”
Apart from the new Lookup button, AssembleDebug revealed another new feature update by Google. The company is in the process of integrating Gemini-powered email summaries into the Android version of its Gmail app.
Still, in its early testing phase, the button currently lacks functionality for the Android version of the email app. However, Google Workspace users can take advantage of Gemini’s email summarizing abilities, but only on the web.
