In a groundbreaking move, Google has unveiled an innovative AI-driven business calling feature aimed at streamlining communication for users across the United States. This announcement, made on Wednesday, marks a significant enhancement to the company’s suite of tools, particularly with the integration of the Gemini 2.5 Pro model into Google Search’s AI Mode, which now boasts advanced research capabilities.
The newly introduced business calling feature leverages artificial intelligence to autonomously contact local businesses on behalf of users, gathering essential information regarding availability and pricing. This functionality is designed to eliminate the need for users to engage in direct phone conversations, thereby simplifying the process of obtaining information.
Initially, this feature was tested in January with a select group of users participating in experimental programs. The feedback from these early adopters has been instrumental in refining the service, ensuring it meets user expectations and enhances their experience.
To utilize this feature, users can initiate a search for services, such as “pet groomers near me,” and will be presented with an option to have AI check pricing. After selecting this option, users will answer a few questions to receive tailored information about services and appointments from various local businesses. For instance, inquiries may include the type of pet, required services, and preferred timing.
A representative from Google confirmed that each call made by the AI begins with a clear announcement that it is an automated system calling on behalf of a user, ensuring transparency in communication.
It is important to note that Google has previously faced criticism for a similar feature that mimicked human speech, leading to concerns about user deception. In response to this feedback, the company has committed to ensuring that its AI clearly identifies itself as a robot during calls.
The rollout of this business calling feature is now available to all users in the United States, with enhanced capabilities for subscribers of premium AI services.
In addition to the business calling feature, Google is also enhancing its AI Mode, which allows users to pose complex, multi-part questions through an AI interface. The introduction of the Gemini 2.5 Pro model is particularly beneficial for subscribers, as it excels in advanced reasoning, mathematics, and coding inquiries. Users can easily select this model from a dropdown menu within AI Mode.
The new “Deep Search” functionality within AI Mode is designed to save users significant time by conducting extensive searches and synthesizing information into a comprehensive, fully-cited report in mere minutes. This feature is particularly advantageous for in-depth research related to various fields, including career planning, hobbies, or academic studies.
Google emphasizes that Deep Search is also valuable for making significant life decisions, such as purchasing a home or conducting financial analyses. Since its launch earlier this year, Google has been continuously enhancing AI Mode with new features to compete with popular services in the market.
Recent updates have included the ability to engage in back-and-forth voice conversations with AI Mode and the introduction of a shopping experience that allows users to view product visuals and receive AI-driven guidance based on product data.