Google Phone is reportedly beta testing a new feature named “Audio Emoji”, poised to bring a fun twist to communication. Provided it achieves widespread adoption, this feature is set to heighten interactivity in phone calls by allowing users to incorporate a multitude of audio effects.
The highlighted effects involve sounds such as applause, laughter, a sorrowful trombone, a theatrical ‘ba dum tss’, and even a flatulence sound, all of which can be shared by every participant during a call. These sounds, created to inject a pleasurable ambiance to phone calls, range from enhancing the mood with laughter and applause, adding a humorous element with the trombone and ‘ba dum tss’, or creating heartiness with the novelty fart sound. Usage of these sounds can be tailored to fit the context of the conversation or group preference.
“Audio Emoji” distinguishes each sound with an emoji-button trigger mechanism, an aspect that enhances the interactive experience for users. Along with the sound comes a quick visual representation for each effect. The range of sounds varies from mere laughter to intricate music scores. Animated visual counterparts add context and enhance the sensory appeal of this feature.
As it stands now, it appears only the user who activates an audio emoji can see the corresponding animation, but recipients with enabled audio emojis may also be privy to this.
Exploring Google’s new ‘Audio Emoji’ feature
The roll-out of this feature seems phased, like most tech updates, and anticipates wider accessibility over time. However, without official word from Google, this remains speculative.
Users have the autonomy to disable the feature at their discretion using an ‘X’ button found on the menu’s top-right corner. Among its features lies a cooldown period between emoji uses, a regulation designed to avert continual usage during calls. As fun as the interchangeability of audio effects is, caution is exercised to prevent its misuse.
The debut of this exciting feature notably accents the anticipation for Google’s imminent hardware and software launch. As ever, Google continues to keep fans agog with prospects of cutting-edge offerings, with the ‘Audio Emoji’ enhancement being the latest in its string of intriguing reveals. We await more thrilling unveiling in the technological sphere from Google soon.
