Google's 'Ask for Me' Feature: Calls Businesses For You

Google's New "Ask for Me" Feature: AI-Powered Business Inquiries

Google is currently evaluating a novel “Ask for Me” functionality. This utilizes artificial intelligence to contact local businesses directly, gathering details regarding service availability and associated costs.

The feature is presently accessible on both desktop and mobile platforms, but is limited to users who have registered for participation in Google’s Search Labs experimental program.

Streamlining Information Access

The primary goal of this innovation is to facilitate user access to crucial information without requiring direct phone conversations.

Initially, the “Ask for Me” capability supports inquiries related to services offered by nail salons and automotive repair shops.

How to Utilize the Feature

If you are a member of Search Labs, you can activate the feature by performing searches for local services, such as “oil change” or “nail salons nearby.”

Following your search, an “Ask for me” option will appear, accompanied by a “Get started” button.

You will then be asked to specify the service you are interested in, including options like “tire replacement,” “factory scheduled maintenance,” “french manicure,” or “nail art.”

Subsequently, you can define your preferred timeframe. Google’s AI will then initiate calls to relevant local businesses and provide you with a concise summary of pricing and scheduling options.

Expanding AI-Driven Convenience

This rollout aligns with Google’s broader efforts to leverage AI in order to save users time when contacting businesses.

Last year, the company introduced “Talk to a Live Rep,” a feature that handles the process of calling businesses, enduring hold times, and connecting you with a live agent.

This eliminates the need for users to spend potentially lengthy periods listening to hold music while attempting to reach a customer service representative.

Other Recent Search Labs Innovations

Beyond “Ask for Me,” Google has recently launched “Daily Listen,” a personalized, AI-powered audio experience.

“Daily Listen” is designed to keep users informed with a customized news feed.

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