Google Developed Gemini-Powered Call Automation
A new tool codenamed Hedwig allows Pixel devices to navigate automated customer support menus for users.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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Google has developed an automated phone navigation feature codenamed Hedwig for the Phone by Google app, currently identified in version v239.0.980790129 beta. This research-stage feature utilizes Gemini to interact with customer support hotlines on a user's behalf.
Why it matters
This development aims to streamline the consumer experience with automated support systems by offloading navigation tasks to an AI agent. It represents a broader industry trend toward delegating repetitive interaction workflows to generative AI models.
The beta version v239.0.980790129 of the Phone by Google app contains code for the Gemini-powered Hedwig feature. The software architecture supports real-time call monitoring, transcript generation, and system-level alerts regarding incoming call interruptions.
The players
A multinational technology company focused on search, cloud computing, and hardware, including the Pixel smartphone line.
Gemini
A family of multimodal large language models developed by Google to power generative AI applications across its ecosystem.
The details
The Hedwig feature integrates the Gemini model to dial and interpret automated voice response menus. Users retain control over the interaction through an interface that allows for manual intervention, muting, or termination of the call. The app provides call transcripts for review and notifies the user with specific reasons when a support session concludes.
Timeline
September 21, 2026: Publication of the report regarding the Hedwig feature.
The Tech Race
The Hedwig feature follows the trajectory of the Duplex automated appointment booking system by attempting to handle voice-based service interactions autonomously. It marks a shift from task-specific voice agents to broader navigation of support infrastructure using generative models.
The feature is expected to launch as a Pixel-exclusive, though the timeline remains unannounced. When available, users will be able to offload the frustration of navigating automated support menus to the AI while keeping an optional transcript of the call for reference.
The takeaway
This development signals a move toward delegating consumer-support friction to AI agents on mobile devices. Watch for future Google software updates or official product announcements to confirm the formal release date for Pixel owners.
Further reading
For broader trends in generative model integration, visit the Artificial Intelligence section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Android Authority.
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