Google appears to be preparing to extend its AI-powered call protection features, specifically Scam Detection, to non-Pixel Android devices. Evidence suggests this expansion may begin with the Samsung Galaxy S26 series.
Google appears to be preparing to extend its AI-powered call protection features, specifically Scam Detection, to non-Pixel Android devices.
Introducing Android CallCore
The new application, Android CallCore, is designed to enable these phone-calling-based features on compatible devices. Its recent update includes the capability to identify scam calls. Installation of Android CallCore is believed to be restricted to devices possessing the com.google.android.apps.callcore.SUPPORTED flag.
Galaxy S26 Integration Anticipated
Log files for the Galaxy S26 Ultra indicate that Samsung's upcoming flagship device includes this necessary feature flag. This suggests it could be among the first non-Pixel phones to receive Scam Detection capabilities.
Log files for the Galaxy S26 Ultra indicate that Samsung's upcoming flagship device includes this necessary feature flag, suggesting it could be among the first non-Pixel phones to receive Scam Detection capabilities.
"Sharpie" and Gemini Nano Speculation
Previously, an APK teardown of the Phone by Google app revealed Galaxy S26 model numbers alongside references to "Sharpie," the codename for Scam Detection. This led to speculation that the Galaxy S26 series might utilize on-device Gemini Nano for Scam Detection, similar to the Pixel 9 and 10 series in specific regions.
Current Scam Detection Operations
Scam Detection currently operates differently across Pixel devices:
- Newer Pixel 9 (excluding 9a) and Pixel 10 series in select countries use on-device Gemini Nano via AI Core.
- Pixel 6 and later devices in the US utilize Google's on-device machine learning models.
An attempt to install Android CallCore on a rooted Pixel device encountered initial incompatibility warnings and subsequently a country-based restriction.
It is important to note that features identified through APK teardowns are based on work-in-progress code and may not always be released publicly.