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Pixel “Take a Message” Feature Bug – Potential Privacy Issue
Several Google Pixel phone users (primarily older models) have reported a concerning issue with the “take a Message” feature. Users claim that when a call is unanswered and “Take a Message” activates, the caller can allegedly hear the user’s surroundings after the phone has stopped ringing. This raises privacy concerns as it potentially allows unintended audio transmission.
Reported Devices & timeline:
* Pixel 5: Initial reports surfaced regarding this issue.
* Pixel 4a: multiple reports from Pixel 4a owners followed, with some finding that disabling “Take a Message” resolved the problem.
* Recent Reports: Within the past day, additional reports have come from Pixel 4a users. One user was able to reliably reproduce the issue, noting the microphone privacy indicator (green dot) activated as the ringing stopped and “Take a Message” began.
testing & Findings:
* Testing: The source (9to5Google) attempted to replicate the issue on a Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 7 Pro, and a Pixel 4a (running android 13) but were unsuccessful.
* Pattern: The issue appears to be isolated and doesn’t seem widespread. The common thread among reported cases is older Pixel phones that are no longer receiving regular OS updates.
Google’s Response:
* Google is aware of the reports and is actively investigating the issue.(Quote from a Google spokesperson: “Our team is aware of these reports and is actively investigating.”)
How to Disable “Take a Message”:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the hamburger icon (three horizontal lines) in the top-left corner to access “Settings.”
- Select “Take a Message” within the “Call Assist” section.
- Toggle the switch to turn the feature off.
Source: https://9to5google.com/2024/01/24/pixel-take-a-message-privacy-issue/
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