Google has unveiled a groundbreaking AI tool called ‘Ask for Me’ that promises to revolutionize how people handle phone calls and appointments. The system, expected to launch in 2025, can make phone calls on behalf of users to schedule appointments, make reservations, and handle customer service inquiries. Building upon the foundation of Google’s Duplex technology, Ask for Me represents a significant advancement in conversational AI, capable of understanding context, managing complex dialogues, and adapting to unexpected responses. The AI assistant can handle multiple calls simultaneously, potentially saving users hours of time typically spent on hold or navigating automated phone systems. The technology incorporates sophisticated voice synthesis that sounds natural and can even include verbal mannerisms to make conversations more authentic. Security and privacy features are built-in, with calls being recorded and transcribed for user review. Early testing shows promising results, with the AI successfully completing 90% of assigned tasks. However, some concerns have been raised about the broader implications for human employment in customer service roles and the ethical considerations of AI-human interactions. Google emphasizes that the tool is designed to complement rather than replace human interaction, focusing on routine tasks while leaving more complex situations to human handlers. The company plans a gradual rollout starting with basic appointment scheduling before expanding to more complex use cases.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/google-ask-for-me-ai-phone-tool-could-save-hours-2025-3