Google expands Android deepfake detection and AirDrop support ahead of Android 17
The latest Android update introduces AI-driven call verification for contacts, broadens Apple AirDrop compatibility to devices including those from Nothing, and rolls out AI fashion tools to a wider user base.
Google has released a significant batch of updates for the Android ecosystem ahead of the Android 17 rollout, introducing new security measures designed to combat deepfake voice impersonation scams. The update expands a scam call detection feature, previously limited to verified financial calls, to work with any contact in a user’s address book. This development comes as regulators and public safety organisations in several countries have advised users to exercise extreme caution with financial transactions over the phone, citing the rising sophistication of AI voice cloning tools.
The new verification system operates by requiring both the caller and the recipient to have Google’s Phone, Contacts, and Messages apps installed. When a call arrives from a known contact, the caller’s Google dialer sends a confirmation signal. If this signal is missing, the recipient’s device sends an authenticated RCS ping via Google Messages to the supposed caller. If the caller’s device confirms it is not placing the call, a pop-up alert warns the user that the person on the line may not be who they appear to be.
Despite the broad availability of the feature on phones running Android 12 or higher, its efficacy is constrained by interoperability requirements. The system will not function if the caller is using third-party applications, such as the Samsung dialer or OnePlus contacts app. This limitation is notable given that Samsung remains the largest Android original equipment manufacturer, and many users continue to rely on manufacturer-specific communication tools rather than Google’s suite.
In a move to improve cross-platform interoperability, Google is expanding support for Apple’s AirDrop file-sharing protocol to more Android devices, including those from Nothing. While support for AirDrop on select Pixel and Samsung flagship phones began earlier this year, the update widens this compatibility. However, contact-based sharing remains unsupported when sending files from Android, and iPhone users must still manually set their devices to accept AirDrop requests from anyone for a 10-minute window.
The update also broadens access to artificial intelligence features across the platform. The “Find the Look” capability within Circle to Search, which debuted on Pixel 10 and Galaxy S26 phones earlier this year, is now available to all devices running Android 14 or higher. This feature allows users to circle an image and identify all components of an ensemble. Additionally, Google Photos is introducing an AI-assisted fashion engine that catalogs clothing to create a virtual wardrobe, enabling users to generate AI images of themselves wearing specific outfits.
