Android users are gaining more control over how they appear when making calls. Google is rolling out an update to its Phone app that allows users to create a personalized “profile card” that will be displayed on the recipient’s phone when they call. This feature, first reported by Mobil.se, aims to provide a more informative and personalized calling experience.
The new profile card functionality builds upon existing features within the Google Phone app. Previously, profile cards primarily showed full-screen images and text when you received a call from a contact. Now, the update extends this capability, enabling you to design a card that’s shared when you initiate a call. This offers a level of customization similar to Apple’s Contact Posters in iOS, giving Android users greater control over their caller ID presentation.
Users can personalize their profile cards with a photo, custom text, and a choice of fonts and colors. Crucially, the feature also allows users to determine who sees their profile card – either all recipients or only those saved in their contact list. The rollout is happening gradually, and users will receive a prompt within the Google Phone app when the update is available, inviting them to create their profile card. According to Google, the profile card is linked to your Google Account and can be modified or deleted at any time through the app’s settings.
Creating Your Google Profile Card
The process of creating a profile card is straightforward. Here’s how to get started, according to instructions provided by Google:
- Open the Google Phone app.
- Tap the “Create profile card” message. If you don’t see the message, tap your name under “My profile.”
- Log in with your Google Account if you aren’t already signed in.
- Select a photo and enter the text you want to display.
- Customize the font and colors to your liking.
- Choose whether to display the card to everyone or only your contacts.
- Save your settings.
Managing Your Google Account Phone Number
Whereas the profile card feature focuses on visual presentation, it’s also a good time to review the phone number associated with your Google Account and how it’s used. Google allows users to add, update, or remove phone numbers linked to their account. These numbers are used for various purposes, including account recovery and two-factor authentication. Google’s support documentation details how to manage these settings.
It’s important to note that changes to your phone number may take up to a week to fully propagate across all Google services, particularly when used for verifying your identity for sensitive actions like changing your password. You can also review which Google services are utilizing your phone number and adjust those settings within your Google Account’s “Personal info” section. Google’s account management page provides direct access to these settings.
The introduction of customizable profile cards represents a step towards more personalized communication on Android. As Google continues to refine its Phone app and integrate new features, users can expect even greater control over their calling experience. The rollout of this feature is ongoing, so not all users will have access immediately. Keep an eye on the Google Phone app for the update and the prompt to create your profile card.
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