Google has rolled out a new feature called Take a Message, which was initially believed to be exclusive to the Pixel 10 lineup. In a welcome move for long-time Pixel owners, the feature is also available on Pixel 4 and newer devices, making it a broad update across multiple generations according to PhoneArena.
What “Take a Message” Does
Take a Message takes visual voicemail a step further. When you miss or decline a call, the caller’s voicemail is transcribed in real time directly on your screen. If the transcription reveals something urgent, you can pick up the call mid-message and respond immediately.
In addition to live transcription, a transcript is saved in your call history along with a play button, allowing you to read or listen to voicemails later. Callers, meanwhile, hear a standard prompt: “The person you have called is not available. Please leave a message.”
Google Takes a Page from Apple
Interestingly, this is a rare case where Google is copying Apple. The iPhone already offers a similar feature called Live Voicemail, which transcribes messages as they’re being recorded.
Usually, the dynamic is reversed: Apple has adopted several Pixel-inspired tools in recent years. For example, Hold Assist in iOS 26 mirrors Google’s Hold for Me, a feature introduced with the Pixel 6 series. That tool uses Duplex AI to monitor hold times and alert users when a call resumes.
How to Enable “Take a Message” on Your Pixel
Pixel owners can activate the feature in just a few steps:
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Open the Phone app on your Pixel.
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Tap the three-line hamburger icon in the search bar.
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Go to Settings > Take a Message.
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Toggle the feature on.
Once enabled, real-time voicemail transcriptions will appear whenever you miss or decline a call, giving you a quick preview without committing to playback.
Why It Matters
The rollout underscores Google’s continued strategy of backporting flagship features to older models, keeping long-time users engaged and ensuring consistency across its ecosystem. For Pixel owners who rely on call screening and AI-assisted tools, Take a Message adds another layer of convenience and control.
