Google’s latest AI feature ‘Ask for Me’ will call local businesses for you

Google has launched a new AI-powered feature called “Ask for Me” that can make phone calls to local businesses on behalf of users to schedule appointments and gather information.

What’s new: Google’s Ask for Me tool leverages artificial intelligence to make automated calls to businesses, currently focused on nail salons and auto shops, to handle basic inquiries and scheduling.

• Users can access the feature through Google Search Labs when looking up local service providers
• The system asks users specific questions about their needs, such as service type, vehicle details, and preferred appointment times
• Customers must provide contact information to receive updates about their requests

How it works: The technology builds upon Google’s existing Duplex system, which handles automated phone calls and reservations.

• The AI clearly identifies itself as an automated system calling on behalf of a Google user
• The feature collects information about pricing and service availability
• Information gathered may be used to assist with similar customer requests in the future

Business considerations: Google has implemented several measures to ensure responsible deployment of the automated calling system.

• Businesses can opt out through their Google Business Profile settings
• Call quotas are in place to prevent excessive automated contacts
• Business owners can request to stop receiving automated calls during any interaction

Technical foundation: The system is powered by Duplex, Google’s AI technology that enables natural-sounding automated phone conversations.

• The technology identifies itself as an AI system at the start of each call
• Duplex has previously been used for restaurant reservations and other booking services
• The system is designed to handle basic information gathering and scheduling tasks

Looking ahead: While Ask for Me represents an interesting advancement in AI-assisted customer service, its limited scope and potential for confusion in business interactions suggests a cautious rollout approach may be necessary before wider deployment across other service sectors.