Apple, Google and Samsung have each implemented artificial intelligence features that allow phones to answer unknown calls and demand an explanation from the caller. The tools aim to provide users with context before they decide whether to pick up a ringing device. Apple's iOS 27 introduces a Call Screening feature that automatically answers calls from unsaved numbers. The system asks the caller for their name and the reason for the call. Once the caller responds, the iPhone rings and displays the provided information. Apple offers two additional options in the same settings section. The "Never" setting turns off call screening entirely, while "Silence" sends calls from unsaved numbers directly to voicemail. Both options keep the calls in the Recents list. Apple also provides separate filtering options for spam and unknown callers. Enabling Spam allows the carrier to identify potential fraud calls, which are then silenced and moved to a dedicated list. The Unknown Callers option segregates calls from unrecognized numbers into a separate list, removing them from the main Recents view.
Samsung has brought similar functionality to compatible Galaxy phones running One UI 8.5 or later. The feature availability varies by model, carrier and region. Galaxy Call screening answers incoming calls and asks the caller for their purpose. The phone then displays the caller's response as a live transcription. Users can select the transcription language and customize the assistant's voice. If the automatic feature is not visible, users must check for software updates and ensure the Samsung Phone app is current. Some Galaxy models do not support the feature.
Google Pixel phones utilize a distinct approach called Call Screen. This feature answers specific calls and asks the caller for their identity and reason for calling. Depending on the device and settings, Google may screen calls automatically. Newer Pixel phones offer three protection levels: Maximum, Medium and Basic. Medium protection is Google's recommended setting, which screens suspicious calls and declines known spam. Maximum protection screens unknown numbers more aggressively, while Basic protection primarily targets known spam. Users can also initiate screening manually by tapping "Screen call" when an unfamiliar number appears. The AI assistant asks for details while a live transcript appears on the screen, allowing the user to answer, hang up or use suggested responses.
These screening tools address the difficulty of deciding whether to answer unknown numbers, particularly when expecting calls from medical offices or service technicians. While screening provides a layer of security by delaying immediate contact with potential scammers, it does not verify identity. Caller ID can be spoofed, and scammers can still provide false information during screening. Users should not treat a response to a screening question as proof of legitimacy. If a caller requests money, login information or one-time security codes, the call should be ended immediately. Users should contact organizations through official apps, websites or numbers printed on cards and statements.