Privacy Concerns Force Google to Disable 'Take a Message' Feature on Older Pixel Devices
In a recent turn of events, Google has acknowledged significant privacy issues with its "Take a Message" feature, leading to its shutdown on specific older Pixel models. This article delves into the implications of this decision and what it means for users affected by this critical development.
Latest Pixel Devices Maintain Access to the Feature
With the introduction of the Pixel 10 series last year, Google rolled out an innovative feature known as "Take a Message." This feature acts similarly to voicemail by allowing callers to record messages when users are unavailable. However, its distinguishing characteristic lies in its AI capability, which transcribes these messages and integrates them into the Pixel call history for easy access and playback.
Initially, this feature was exclusive to the newest Pixel devices but was gradually extended to older models, including the nearly seven-year-old Pixel 4. While the technology appeared impressive, reports surfaced indicating malfunctions, with users claiming that it was leaking audio during voicemail recordings.
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One user, a Pixel 4a owner, reported on Reddit that callers could hear their conversations during the voicemail recording. As complaints accumulated on community forums, it became evident that the issue was not confined to specific Pixel models; it affected a wide range from the latest Pixel 10 series to seven-year-old models like the Pixel 4. Google has since confirmed the issue, admitting that some devices are impacted.
Siri Tejaswini, a Google community manager, stated on the Google support forum that after thorough investigation, the team concluded that the "Take a Message" feature malfunctioned on a select few Pixel 4 and Pixel 5 devices under unique and rare situations. Consequently, Google has decided to disable the feature on these models. Users can still rely on carrier-supported voicemail and standard call screening methods.
Disabling the Feature: A Necessary Measure
Users might wonder why Google opted to completely disable the feature instead of addressing it with a software fix. The Pixel 4 and Pixel 5 have both surpassed their guaranteed system update periods, with the Pixel 4 last receiving support in 2022 and the Pixel 5 in 2023.
Future models, like the Pixel 6 series, will continue to receive security and feature updates until October 2026, allowing for potential resolution of issues through software patches. Thus, disabling the "Take a Message" feature on older Pixel devices was deemed the most sensible solution.
Ongoing Bugs Affecting Pixel Devices
Users have recently voiced concerns about the frequent bugs and issues experienced on Pixel phones. From malfunctions in the always-on display feature to significant connectivity issues arising from the January 2026 update, the software experience, while generally high-quality, often lacks stability. Many users have noted that while software updates can enhance functionality, they also frequently introduce new problems—particularly on Pixel devices.
For those with the Pixel 4 or 5, the "Take a Message" feature is now no longer available, emphasizing the need for continued attention to privacy and user experience in smartphone technology.
