In a move to alleviate the discomfort many feel towards making routine phone calls, Google has unveiled “Ask for Me,” an experimental feature within its Search Labs. This innovative tool utilizes artificial intelligence to contact local businesses on behalf of users, inquiring about service pricing and availability. Currently, the feature is tailored for scheduling appointments at nail salons and arranging standard car maintenance services, such as oil changes, with plans to expand to other business types in the near future.
How ‘Ask for Me’ Works
To access “Ask for Me,” users need to enroll in Search Labs. Once enrolled, performing a search query like “oil change near me” or “manicure near me” may prompt the option to use “Ask for Me.” Upon selecting this feature, users are guided to provide specific details about the services they require, such as the type of service, preferred appointment times, and any relevant personal information. After submission, the AI system initiates a call to the selected business to gather the requested information. Users can choose to receive the business’s response via SMS or email, typically within a 30-minute timeframe.
Underlying Technology
“Ask for Me” is powered by Google’s Duplex technology, which enables AI to engage in natural-sounding conversations over the phone. During these calls, the AI introduces itself as an automated system calling from Google, ensuring transparency. Businesses have the option to opt out of receiving such automated calls through their Google Business Profile settings. Google also monitors the frequency of these calls to prevent overwhelming businesses and utilizes the collected data to assist with similar future requests.
Expanding AI Capabilities
The introduction of “Ask for Me” aligns with Google’s broader strategy to enhance user experiences through AI-driven services. Recently, Google launched a Gemini tool that acts as a research assistant, capable of gathering data from the web on behalf of users. Additionally, another Search Labs experiment was introduced to wait on hold for users during customer service calls, further demonstrating Google’s commitment to leveraging AI to perform tasks on users’ behalf.
User Considerations
While “Ask for Me” offers a convenient solution for those who prefer to avoid making phone calls, it’s important to note that by enrolling in Search Labs, users agree to share their data with Google to improve its AI models. As with any AI-driven service, users should remain mindful of privacy considerations and stay informed about how their data is utilized.
Conclusion
Google’s “Ask for Me” represents a significant step forward in integrating AI into everyday tasks, providing a practical solution for users who find making routine phone calls burdensome. As the feature evolves and expands to include more business types, it has the potential to become an indispensable tool for simplifying daily activities through the power of artificial intelligence.
