Google Messages is taking a significant step towards enhancing user safety with the introduction of an AI-powered scam detection feature, designed to protect Android users from text message scams. This innovative tool, announced alongside other new features, aims to tackle "conversational text scams" that often begin innocently before escalating into nefarious schemes.

The Scam Detection feature works by monitoring SMS, MMS, and RCS messages in real-time for suspicious patterns. When a likely scam is detected, Google Messages presents a warning message to users, allowing them to quickly dismiss it or report and block the sender. According to Alberto Pastor Nieto, senior product manager for Google Messages, traditional spam protections are less effective against these latest tactics from scammers, which is why the company invested in new, intelligent AI models capable of detecting suspicious patterns and delivering real-time warnings over the course of a conversation, all while prioritizing user privacy.

The Scam Detection feature is launching in English and will initially be available in the US, UK, and Canada, with expansion to more countries planned for the near future. Notably, the feature is enabled by default and only monitors conversations with people who aren't saved to the user's contacts list. Google assures that all message processing occurs on-device to maintain user conversation privacy, and users can disable the feature under Google Messages' Spam Protection settings.

In addition to the Scam Detection feature, Google is also rolling out live location sharing in the Find My app for Android users. This feature allows users to share their location with "trusted contacts" in real-time, with the ability to select who they want to share their location with and for how long. Google emphasizes that location data is "safely stored" and that the app will provide regular reminders about who this information is being shared with.

Furthermore, Google is releasing exclusive features for Pixel devices, including multicamera streaming support, which enables Pixel 9 users to connect GoPro cameras or other Pixel phones to their device via Bluetooth and WiFi, allowing for simultaneous streaming from different angles on compatible apps such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. Additionally, Pixel 9 users can now use the Pixel Studio app to generate stylized images or stickers of people, which are designed to prevent misuse.

Other Pixel 9-specific updates include support for satellite messaging on both Verizon and T-Mobile, as well as suggestions in Pixel Screenshots that will automatically recommend which screenshots should be added to the user's collections. Transcription has also been refreshed for Pixel Watches, Pixel Tablets, and Pixel 6 phones and newer, allowing users to transfer audio recordings from old devices and have them automatically transcribed and saved within the Recorder app.

All of these features are starting to roll out today, although it may take a few weeks for them to appear on supported devices. As Google continues to enhance its messaging platform, these updates demonstrate the company's commitment to prioritizing user safety and convenience.