Google Phone app now warns users of spam calls

Great news for those constantly hassled by insurances companies who want your money (and soul). This week, everyone’s non-evil company Google announced that it will now warn users of incoming spam callers through its Google Phone app.

Now, this announcement won’t be useful for everyone. The app — available natively through Google’s Android One and Nexus programmes — is not yet available for those not running on Android Marshmallow or above. Still, it’s a tale of the future.

On Gearburn: Android One arrives in Africa with the $90 Infinix Hot 2

The company notes that the feature can now be switched on within the Google Phone app, and allows users to “see useful information about callers or businesses not in your contacts or warnings about potential spam callers.”

Users can also mark calls as spam, but in doing so, some information will be sent to Google. Google didn’t provide specifics about the system’s mechanics, but the app’s methodology does seem to be in tune with the likes of TruCaller.

Ultimately, if you’re sick of getting calls from numbers you don’t quite know and you just happen to be running Android Marshmallow on your device, you can install the Google Phone APK over here.

Do please note, that installing Google apps from non-official channels is a risky business, perhaps even as risky as answering a spammy phone call.