Pixel owners across Europe can now record phone conversations directly through Google's native Phone app, ending months of US exclusivity for a feature that relaunched last fall. Those in Germany, Italy, Spain, Romania, and France report seeing the Call Recording option appear on their devices this week.
Google confirmed with the Pixel 10a launch announcement that this functionality would reach all supported markets by the end of February, or before the new device hits store shelves globally, according to 9to5Google.
The feature works on Pixel 6 and newer models running Android 14 or later. Unlike Gemini Nano-powered Call Notes available on Pixel 9 (except A-Series) and later models, this basic version doesn't generate transcripts or AI summaries.
Once available, Fgo to Phone app > Settings > Call Recording for a setup/download process, then access it through a dedicated button in the Call Assist menu.
Before any capture begins, there's a countdown followed by an automatic audio announcement that notifies all participants the conversation is being recorded.
This built-in safeguard helps comply with varying international regulations where some countries prohibit such activity entirely while others require explicit consent from everyone on the line.
Automatic capture can be configured for conversations from unknown numbers and set to auto-delete after 7, 14, or a notable figure. Saved audio appears in the Phone app's home tab marked with a microphone icon for direct playback.
Google first announced its return in September after removing similar functionality years earlier due to legal complexities. The wider rollout began in November but remained limited to US customers until this month's European expansion.
The company's support documentation notes that "Call Recording is widely available, but not in all countries or regions," with features varying based on local laws. Some markets may never receive access due to outright bans on this technology.
