Google is set to launch four innovative features for Android users aimed at enhancing security against scam messages, enabling secure location sharing, monitoring price changes while browsing, and providing entertainment options for parked vehicles. The tech giant has revealed that its new scam detection capability within Google Messages will utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to recognize potentially fraudulent messages, issuing real-time warnings directly on users’ smartphones. These updates are anticipated to be available on Android devices in the coming weeks.
Real-Time AI Scam Detection in Google Messages
According to Google, the enhanced Scam Detection feature in Google Messages will employ AI to analyze text patterns commonly associated with scams. Users will receive alerts indicating that a message is “Likely Scam,” along with two response options: Not a scam and Report & block.
Scam Detection on Google Messages
Photo Credit: Google
The Scam Detection feature is specifically designed to help users identify messages from scammers attempting to defraud unsuspecting recipients. Google emphasizes that the analysis of incoming messages to flag potential scams is carried out on-device, thereby safeguarding user privacy.
Find My Device Expands with Live Location Sharing
The Find My Device app, originally intended to help users locate their mobile devices and accessories, is expanding its capabilities to include live location sharing with trusted contacts. This feature mirrors functionality already present in Apple’s Find My app, which enables users to view their contacts’ locations on a map.
With this update, users can choose how long they wish to share their live location, with options ranging from one hour to a full day, a custom period, or indefinitely. The Find My Device app will also display the battery levels of friends and family who have consented to share their location.
Chrome for Android Launches Price Tracking Functionality
Shoppers using Chrome for Android will soon notice a new icon in the browser’s address bar while exploring e-commerce sites. While price tracking extensions have long been available for Chrome on PC platforms, they have not been integrated into the mobile version—until now.
Live Location Sharing on Android
Photo Credit: Google
Users will find a new icon in the Chrome address bar that notifies them when a product’s price has dropped. Additionally, they can view a price history chart from the past several months and opt to receive alerts for significant price reductions by clicking on the Track button.
Enhanced Gaming Experience on Android Auto
Google is also expanding entertainment options for Android Auto users by introducing a range of games that can be played while the vehicle is parked. Titles such as Farm Heroes Saga, Candy Crush Soda Saga, Angry Birds 2, and Beach Buggy Racing will be available for download on smartphones and compatible with Android Auto.
This initiative aims to provide entertainment without distracting users while driving, as these games will only be accessible when the vehicle is stationary. All of the aforementioned features are expected to roll out to users shortly, with notifications alerting them to the availability of new functionalities on their devices.
