The Google Phone app is steadily becoming more user-friendly, especially when dealing with spam and scam calls. In a recent update, Google has introduced and is refining features to empower users to report fraudulent calls more effectively. Meanwhile, a fresh update for the Chromecast with Google TV has begun rolling out, keeping the device optimized as Google preps for larger changes.

Google Phone App: Smarter Tools for Scam Reporting

The Google Phone app has long been a reliable tool for blocking unwanted calls, but it’s taking scam call reporting to the next level. Users can already block or report spam calls directly from the call log by long-pressing an entry and selecting “Block or report.” From there, you can classify the call as either spam or scam and choose whether to block the number. However, this process currently sends minimal context to Google.

An upcoming update is set to introduce a detailed feedback mechanism. Version 155.0.697690833-publicbeta of the app hints at a future feature where users can provide additional insights about scam calls. This update may include:

Enhanced Reporting Options

When reporting a call as a scam, users might see a multi-select menu with questions like:

• What did the scammer ask for?
  • Personal information (e.g., full name)
  • Passwords
  • Electronic payments
  • App downloads
  • “Not applicable” or “Something else” (with a text entry option)
• What did the scammer pretend to be?
  • Government agencies (e.g., FBI, IRS, Social Security Administration)
  • Friends or acquaintances
  • Law enforcement (e.g., police)
  • “Not applicable” or “Something else” (allowing for further details)

This information will be reviewed by Google and could potentially be used to warn other users about known scam numbers or their tactics.

Lookup Button Gets Better Placement

The update also tweaks the Lookup button, which helps identify unknown numbers. While this button has existed in the app, it is now visible within the Google Contacts app when accessed through the Phone app. A banner labeled “Contact info from Phone” further clarifies the context.

Although these features are still in development and not yet available for public use, they highlight Google’s ongoing efforts to combat spam and scam calls.

Chromecast with Google TV: Latest Update Rolling Out

Google is also rolling out a new update for the Chromecast with Google TV, continuing its commitment to improving performance and security.

Update Details

• Version: STTL.240812.006.N1 (upgraded from STTL.240812.006)
• Size: 59.48 MB (smaller than October’s 83.01 MB patch)
• Patch Level: September 2024 (still based on Android 12)
• Changes: General bug fixes and performance improvements.

This marks the eighth update for Chromecast with Google TV in 2023, following monthly patches since February. While these incremental updates focus on stability, they pave the way for a bigger milestone: Android 14.

What’s Next for Chromecast?

The Android 14 update is expected to bring a significant feature called “Home runtime”, enabling Chromecast devices to function as hubs for Matter smart home devices. Google has until the end of the year to roll out this transformative upgrade, and this recent patch could be preparing the device for the transition.

How to Update Your Chromecast

To ensure you have the latest version:

1. Navigate to Settings on your Chromecast with Google TV.
2. Go to System > About > System update.
3. Follow the prompts to install the update.

Conclusion

Google’s latest improvements for the Phone app and Chromecast with Google TV showcase its focus on user experience and security. With smarter scam call reporting on the horizon and updates ensuring devices stay optimized, Google continues to lead in enhancing everyday tech. Stay tuned as these features and updates roll out to users worldwide!