New York: Google has rolled out a major privacy-focused update for its Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 2, introducing an AI-powered Scam Detection feature previously exclusive to Pixel smartphones. The feature, which leverages real-time on-device intelligence to identify scam patterns during calls, is now available to users in the United States, offering an added layer of safety right on their wrist.
AI-Powered Scam Detection Comes to Pixel Watch
In a post on its official community forum, the Mountain View-based tech giant detailed how this advanced Scam Detection feature functions. When enabled, it continuously scans call conversations in real time for patterns commonly associated with scam tactics. If suspicious dialogue is detected, the system immediately sends a notification, audible alert, and vibration to the user—mid-call—without requiring them to pull out their phone.
Scam Detection works when a supported Pixel Watch is connected to a compatible device; currently, that means the Pixel 9 series.
To ensure transparency and privacy, the feature emits a beep at the start of the call and at regular intervals. The detection runs in the background, offering a seamless experience, and if a potential scam is flagged, users can quickly dismiss the alert or end the call directly from the watch.
However, there’s a notable caveat—Scam Detection does not function for direct calls received over LTE on the smartwatch models. It only works when the watch is paired via Bluetooth with a Pixel 9 or newer smartphone.
AI Meets Everyday Safety
Originally introduced as part of the Pixel March Feature Drop, the Scam Detection feature was initially limited to the Pixel 9 series. On those phones, the system operates using Gemini Nano, Google’s lightweight, on-device AI model. On older Pixel devices and now the Pixel Watch lineup, it uses specialized on-device machine learning models to deliver real-time call analysis.
The feature is currently available in English for Pixel Watch 3 and Watch 2 users connected to a Pixel 9 or newer device, and only within the United States for now.
While this update marks a significant step forward in smartwatch-based privacy tools, Google emphasizes that no scam detection system is flawless.
The company advises users to stay vigilant and exercise caution, especially when dealing with unknown or suspicious callers, as scammers are constantly evolving their tactics.
With this latest move, Google continues to push the envelope in AI-driven user protection, aiming to create smarter, safer, and more intuitive wearable experiences.
