Google Phone app teardown hints feature that automatically records callers from unknown numbers

Last year, Google own Phone app introduced a new call recording feature that only works with Pixel devices and select Nokia and Xiaomi phones. A recording button appears in the ongoing call screen that plays back a voice, notifying both parties that the call is being recorded.

An APK teardown of the latest Google Phone app version 59 (performed by XDA-Developers) reveals some strings of text that suggest a new feature would allow users to begin recording all phone calls from unknown callers or numbers not on a user’s contacts list.

One string is essentially a disclaimer that…