Google Pixel models are now more secure than ever

Thanks to the new update package prepared by Google for Pixel users, unwanted calls and messages can now be blocked much more effectively.

Google's Pixel handsets offer a unique feature, the Pixel Call Screen, integrated into the Phone app. This feature filters incoming calls based on a variety of factors such as Google's spam database, manipulated numbers used by spammers, first-time callers, and calls from concealed numbers.

On Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 models, users can customize their response to these categories of calls. For instance, if a call originates from a number listed in Google's spam database, users can either let the call through, screen it automatically with robocalls being declined, or silently decline it. For other categories like spoofed numbers, first-time, and hidden/private numbers, the options are to let the call ring or to auto-screen it.

Google Pixel models are now more secure than ever

As per Android Police, Google is in the process of modifying these settings. However, this change appears to simplify the controls, merging the various options into three overarching "Protection Level" settings. With the highest protection level, the phone will screen unfamiliar numbers and block spam calls. The medium level protection screens dubious calls and blocks spam. The basic protection level is designed to decline only recognized spam.

To access these Call Screen settings on your Pixel 6 or Pixel 7 series device, follow these steps: Open the Phone app and click on the three-button menu icon located on the right side of the search bar at the top of your screen. From there, navigate to Settings > Spam and Call Screen > Call Screen. This new Protection Level menu was noted in version 106.0.534575879 of the Google Phone app, but the release currently seems to be quite limited.