Google has added a “Take a Message” feature on Pixel 4 and newer
By ForGeeks
Google has expanded the availability of the new feature “Take a Message” that debuted alongside the Pixel 10 series. It’s now available on earlier smartphone models – starting with the Pixel 4.
What Take a Message can do
The feature takes voicemail to the next level. If a user rejects a call or doesn’t answer, the message left by the caller is transcribed right on the phone screen in real time. If something important appears in the text, the device owner can immediately pick up the call and continue the conversation.
Even if a call is missed, the transcription is saved in the call history. You can see the text and listen to the original recording by pressing the play button.
Analog by Apple
In essence, Google has borrowed an idea from Apple. The iPhone has long had a similar feature called “Live Voicemail” that also transcribes a voice message on the screen.
In recent years, interestingly, the situation has more often been the other way around, with Apple adopting Google’s ideas. For example, iOS 26 will introduce “Hold Assist” -analogous to the “Hold for Me” feature first introduced back in the Pixel 6. It allows you to hand off line waiting to an AI assistant, and the user is notified when the operator returns to the conversation.
What devices it works on
It was originally thought that Take a Message would remain exclusive to the Pixel 10. However, Google has made it available for all models starting with the Pixel 4.
- Open the Phone app.
- Click the menu icon (three lines in the search bar).
- Go to Settings.
- Select Take a Message and activate it.
User benefit
- Saves time by not having to listen to the message right away.
- Gives you the opportunity to quickly call back if something important appears in the transcription.
- Makes voicemail more convenient and modern.
