Google introduces Calling Cards for Android

Google expands its Phone app with Calling Cards that customize how incoming calls appear, alongside a new Take a message feature that stores voicemails on-device.

Google adds iPhone style Calling Cards to its Phone app

Google is rolling out Calling Cards within the Phone app. The feature lets users replace the small contact photo that appears during inbound calls with a full-screen image and a stylized name. Users can pick an image from the camera, gallery, or Google Photos and choose a font and color to display the contact. The update is part of Android's Material 3 Expressive design overhaul and follows a phased beta its team tested in June. Calling Cards are in version v188 and will roll out worldwide in phases, so they may not appear for everyone at once.

Alongside Calling Cards, Google added Take a message, a feature that automatically answers and transcribes voicemails when you miss a call. You can record a custom greeting or choose presets. Transcripts and voicemail audio live in the Phone app Recents tab, and Google says all data remains stored on your device. The feature is available on Pixel 4 and newer devices and on Pixel Watch 2 models when paired with Pixel 6 or newer phones. This combo shows Google pushing personalization while keeping user data locally, a stance that could appeal to privacy minded users who dislike cloud syncing.

The update leans into a culture of personal expression on Android, matching some iOS trends but keeping its own rules. The ability to customize per-contact screens builds a sense of control for users but also creates divergence in how others see the same contact if they use different devices.

The on-device privacy angle is a meaningful note in an era of cloud-first features. Google says data stays on the device, which may reassure users but will not quell critics who want more transparency about data handling. The phased rollout means early adopters can test the feature, while most users will see it later. That approach reduces risk but slows momentum in terms of user adoption and brand differentiation.

Highlights

These changes show Google betting on personal flair while preserving user control over data.