Google Pixel Take a Message Bug Leaks Background Audio

A privacy flaw in the Google Pixel Phone app's Take a Message feature has prompted concerns among users, as it inadvertently allows callers to overhear background audio from the recipient's environment during voicemail recordings. The issue, first reported in September 2024, affects a small number of Pixel devices and has led Google to launch an investigation.

Introduced last year with the Pixel 10 series, the Take a Message function serves as an advanced voicemail alternative for handling missed or declined calls. Available on Pixel 4 and newer models in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia, it prompts callers with an automated message: "The person you have called is not available. Please leave a message after the tone." As the caller speaks, the app provides real-time transcription visible in a notification, allowing the recipient to review the message in their call history or tap an "Answer" button to join the call mid-recording. The feature also identifies potential spam in the call log, enhancing user convenience without relying on traditional carrier voicemail.

However, at least six users have described instances where the feature malfunctions,...