AccessibilityThursday, September 24, 2026· 2 min read

Gemini Can Call Businesses for You, Saving Time on Holds and Phone Menus

Source: The Verge AI

TL;DR

Google is testing a Pixel 11 feature that lets Gemini handle routine calls to local businesses, from reservations to appointment changes. By navigating menus, waiting on hold, and providing a live transcript, the tool could make everyday phone tasks faster, less stressful, and more accessible.

Key Takeaways

  • 1Pixel 11 users will be able to ask Gemini to call local businesses on their behalf.
  • 2Gemini can navigate automated phone menus, wait on hold, and speak with staff for common tasks.
  • 3Users stay in control with a live transcript and the ability to monitor the call.
  • 4The feature could reduce time wasted on routine calls and help people who find phone conversations difficult.
  • 5Google is launching it as an early experiment, signaling a practical step toward more useful AI assistants.

Google is rolling out an early experiment for Pixel 11 that gives Gemini a genuinely helpful new job: making routine business calls for users. Instead of dialing, waiting through hold music, and navigating phone trees, people can ask Gemini to call a local business to make a reservation, check product availability, or reschedule an appointment.

The most promising part is that the user does not have to start the call manually. Gemini can introduce itself, work through automated menus, wait on hold, and manage the conversation with a person on the other end while the user follows along through a live transcript.

Why this is a win

  • Time savings: Routine calls can be delegated instead of interrupting the user's day.
  • More accessibility: People who experience anxiety, speech challenges, or difficulty with phone systems may get meaningful support.
  • User control: A live transcript helps keep the person informed and involved.

This is a practical example of AI moving beyond chat and into everyday assistance. While it is still an early experiment, Gemini's ability to handle real-world phone tasks could make digital assistants feel much more useful in daily life.

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