Android users enrolled in the beta update channel have recently discovered a new feature in the Google Phone app during calls, as initially reported by 9to5Google. This unexpected addition, dubbed “Audio Emoji,” offers callers a selection of six different sound effects that can be heard by both parties on the call.
The assortment of audio emojis includes clapping, laughter, celebratory sounds, a sad trombone, a “ba dum tss,” and, curiously, farting. Despite the term “emoji,” the only emoji aspect of the feature is that the buttons to activate the sounds are represented by emojis.
In addition to the sound effects, audio emojis also come with brief animations that complement the sounds, such as an unappetizing depiction of a “chocolate ice cream cone” being squashed to the ground amidst flies. It appears that these animations are visible only to the sender, though there’s uncertainty about whether they’re also visible to the recipient if they have audio emojis enabled.
As this feature is gradually rolling out, many questions remain unanswered, and Google has yet to officially announce it. Some users may not have access to it yet, as I didn’t on my Pixel 8 Pro.
For those who prefer not to have cartoonish elements in their phone calls, there’s an option to disable the Audio Emoji menu by tapping an “X” located in the top right corner. However, it’s unclear whether this prevents others from sending sound effects during calls.
Fortunately, there is a cooldown period between emojis, reducing the risk of receiving a barrage of sound effects from your call partner.
With Google I/O, the tech giant’s major hardware and software event for 2024, just around the corner, it’s hoped that Google will have more significant announcements to make on May 14th.
