Google has introduced an AI-powered feature in the Android 15 operating system to enhance the security of the "Messages" app by detecting fraudulent messages in real time. This feature utilizes the device's processing power to analyze incoming SMS, MMS, and RCS messages, identifying common scam patterns such as urgent requests for personal or financial information.
When suspicious messages are detected, the system alerts users, allowing them to block or report the sender. Importantly, all processing occurs locally on the device, ensuring user privacy remains protected.
This functionality is currently available in English for users in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. However, the company plans to expand this AI-driven fraud detection feature to more countries and languages in the future.
The AI-based fraud detection primarily aims to combat conversational text scams by focusing on identifying and preventing social engineering tactics within conversations. With the implementation of this AI-powered solution, tech giants are striving to provide users with a safer messaging experience.
This development is particularly significant given recent statistics on SMS scams. Data shows a notable increase in "smishing" attacks. Reports indicate that over 19 billion spam texts were sent in the U.S. alone in December 2023, averaging about 19 per person.
Google continues to add more security features to Android. Last year, the company launched a suite of anti-theft protection tools, including theft detection lock, offline device lock, and remote lock — all powered by AI.
In addition to the scam detection feature, Google has introduced several other functionalities in Android 15. By enabling real-time location sharing with trusted contacts, Google has enhanced the "Find My Device" app. Users can decide who sees their location and for how long. The company also provides regular reminders about sharing settings to ensure privacy. Notably, while real-time location sharing is already available in Google Maps and Apple’s "Find My" app, it is now being integrated into the "Find My Device" app.
Moreover, under the leadership of Sundar Pichai, the company is now bringing popular games to Android Auto. Users can play titles like "Farm Heroes Saga," "Candy Crush Soda Saga," "Angry Birds 2," and "Beach Buggy Racing" on their car’s infotainment screen — but only when the vehicle is parked. As for other new features, Google Chrome on Android is rolling out new shopping tools, including price history tracking, price drop alerts, and cross-site price comparisons. A "Lower Price" notification in the address bar also helps users find the best deals.
