Android adds custom caller ID cards, new location sharing features

Google announced some new Android features on Tuesday, including custom caller ID cards and further location tracking functionality.

Google has added custom calling cards that will appear on compatible Android phones when you call them, so that the person on the other end can know who is trying to contact. Now available on Android 11+ and coming to Wear OS soon, Calling Card requires both the caller and recipient to have Phone set by Google as their primary calling app. Luckily, you can choose to show your calling card only to your contacts if you prefer.

Android users can customize their calling card to display the chosen photo, as well as choose the font and color of their name. Unlike the iPhone’s similar feature, Android’s calling cards don’t allow you to directly choose a representative avatar or emoji instead of a photo. However, you can select images from your gallery, so you can save a photo to your phone for use as an alternative solution. Just remember to be responsible about it.

mashable light speed

Google has also introduced new features for its location tracking network Find Hub, formerly known as Find My Device. Last March, Find Hub added the ability to share both your real-time location and tracked items through its app.

Tuesday’s update allows you to share your location directly in Google Messages, which will show the recipient a real-time map of where you are. Just like Find Hub, you can set it to automatically stop sharing your location after a set period of time or until you turn it off.

Find Hub now also enables you to share the location of tracked items with partner airlines in your app, helping them find your luggage. Google says it’s working with more than 10 major airlines, including China Airlines, Air India and Turkish Airlines, and hopes to add other airlines like Australian airline Qantas soon.