Google Fi to add AI-enhanced voice and RCS web messaging

Google announced on Tuesday that its communications service, Google Fi, is getting several new updates, including AI noise filters and RCS web messaging.

The tech giant says calls will now use AI-enhanced audio to reduce background noise and improve voice clarity, even when talking to someone on a landline or older device. The company says the update should allow for “more natural conversations.”

While the feature will be turned on automatically, users will have the option to turn it off. AI-augmented audio will be released next month.

As for RCS web messaging, Google is updating its “Messages for web” integration with a new interface that includes full RCS support for sharing high-resolution photos and videos in threads. The update will be rolled out in December.

Additionally, Google Fi is expanding the availability of its Wi-Fi Auto Connect+ feature, which provides users with a premium Wi-Fi network so their connection is more reliable in crowded places like airports or shopping malls.

“We are expanding the availability of this feature to millions of locations, including major supported airports like LAX, ORD, and JFK, and participating malls and stores,” Jane Harnett, senior product manager at Google Fi Wireless, wrote in the blog post. “It works automatically, and is available at no additional cost. Plus, we’re the only major carrier that automatically secures your online activity with an encrypted connection when you’re connected to a premium Wi-Fi network.”

The company says users will know they’re connected via Wi-Fi Auto Connect+ when they see the W+ icon in their status bar.

Google also announced that the Google Fi app offers personalized, AI-powered summaries that explain monthly fees and changes and how plan adjustments could affect future costs.

As part of Tuesday’s announcement, Google Fi is launching a limited-time promotion for new Google Fi subscribers that offers a 50% discount for 15 months when you bring a phone and join the service’s “Basics Unlimited” or “Unlimited Plan.”