Android Authority found that Google is developing a UI change for the Phone by Google app that would move the Contacts tab back into the bottom navigation bar, alongside Home and Keypad. The feature was uncovered in beta version 240.0.986973448 and enabled through manual tinkering, not yet a public rollout. Currently, Contacts sits in a sidebar menu after Google's Material 3 Expressive redesign removed it from the main navigation last year.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-09-25
Google is testing a new Gemini feature called 'Call for Me' that lets the AI place phone calls to businesses on a user's behalf, sharing approved personal details to complete tasks like booking reservations or checking stock. The feature is limited to Pixel 11 owners with a Gemini subscription in the U.S. and requires the beta Google Phone app, using the user's own number and allowing them to watch a live transcript or take over the call.
techcrunch.com
· 2026-09-24
Android devices come with native options to block spam and scam numbers, typically accessible through the Phone or Contacts app. Users who change their mind can just as easily unblock a number using the same apps. The exact steps can vary slightly depending on the phone manufacturer's version of Android.
engadget.com
· 2026-09-19
iOS 27 adds a small feature to the Phone app that displays a festive fireworks banner animation when a user calls a contact whose birthday is saved in Contacts. The detail, spotted by an X user, mirrors an animation Apple already uses on Apple Watch's midnight birthday notifications and New Year's celebrations.
9to5mac.com
· 2026-09-15
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