Google has announced a new experimental feature called "Ask for Me", which utilizes artificial intelligence to call local businesses on behalf of users to gather information on pricing and availability. This innovative tool is currently available for nail salons and auto shops, with plans to expand to other services in the future.

The "Ask for Me" feature is built using Duplex, a technology that allows AI to make reservations or book appointments over the phone. When enabled on Google Search Labs, users may see an "Ask for Me" prompt when searching for local nail salons or auto shops. Upon selecting the prompt, Google will ask a series of questions, such as the type of service required, the user's vehicle details, and preferred appointment time. Users will then receive updates on their request via email or phone number.

According to Google product lead Rose Yao, every call made by the "Ask for Me" feature begins by announcing that it's an automated system calling from Google on behalf of a user. This transparency is crucial in avoiding confusion on the part of the businesses receiving the calls. Businesses can opt out of receiving these automated calls by adjusting their Google Business Profile settings or by requesting Google to exclude them from the service.

Google has implemented call quotas to prevent businesses from receiving an excessive number of calls. The information collected by "Ask for Me" can be used to assist with similar requests from other users, making it a valuable tool for both consumers and businesses. However, as seen with Duplex, there may be initial confusion when business owners receive calls from an AI system.

The introduction of "Ask for Me" marks a significant step forward in Google's efforts to leverage AI in improving user experiences. As the feature expands to more services, it has the potential to revolutionize the way people interact with local businesses, making it easier to find and book appointments. With its emphasis on transparency and user convenience, "Ask for Me" is an exciting development in the realm of AI-powered customer service.

While the "Ask for Me" feature is still in its experimental stages, it demonstrates Google's commitment to harnessing AI in innovative ways. As the technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how businesses and users adapt to this new paradigm of AI-driven communication.