Google has recently expanded its AI-powered Scam Detection feature to include the Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Watch 3 in the United States. This update allows users to protect themselves from scam calls by receiving alerts directly on their watches when connected to a Pixel 9 series phone or later. The Scam Detection feature provides real-time alerts of potential scam calls via Bluetooth.
Users have the ability to dismiss or terminate the calls right from their wrists. However, it is important to note that this feature is currently only available in the U.S. and supports the English language. Direct calls over LTE on the watch are not supported with this feature.
Initially introduced for Pixel phones, this Scam Detection capability has now made its way to the Pixel Watch lineup, as confirmed in a recent community post by Google. When the feature is active, it utilizes conversation patterns commonly employed by scammers to identify threats during calls. As a result, Pixel Watch owners receive alerts during calls, thanks to the Bluetooth connectivity with their Pixel phones.
Enabling the Scam Detection feature is straightforward. Users need to ensure their Phone app is updated to the latest version. After opening the app and navigating to Settings to activate Scam Detection, the feature is ready for use.
Once activated, an audible beep at the beginning of a call indicates that the detection is operational. If a scam call is flagged as significant, users will receive a notification along with sound and vibration alerts, allowing them to either dismiss or end the call directly. The rollout of this feature began this week for users in the United States, but it remains to be seen if it will expand to other regions in the near future.