Pixel Phone App Bug May Expose Your Audio Messages

The Pixel Phone app, a feature launched last year, has a functionality called “Take a Message.” This feature is designed to assist users by handling missed or declined calls, enabling callers to leave messages. However, recent reports indicate a potential bug that may expose users’ audio to callers.

Understanding the Pixel Phone Bug

When a user misses or declines a call, “Take a Message” activates, notifying the caller that the recipient is unavailable. It prompts the caller to leave a message after a tone. A notification appears in the Phone by Google app, indicating that it is “Taking a message.” Furthermore, the app offers real-time transcription of the caller’s message.

Recent Reports of the Audio Bug

Over the past few months, at least six users have reported issues where the “Take a Message” feature inadvertently transmitted background audio to the caller. This creates a situation where callers can hear sounds happening near the user’s phone as if the call were answered. The earliest report emerged in September 2025 from a Pixel 5 user on Reddit. Subsequent findings included:

• Mid-November: Reports from a Pixel 10 user confirming the issue.
• Late November: A Pixel 4a user shared that disabling “Take a Message” resolved the problem.
• Recently: Additional reports surfaced from Pixel 4a users describing similar issues, including triggering the microphone privacy indicator during call setups.

Device Compatibility

This bug does not seem to affect newer models like the Pixel 10 Pro or Pixel 7 Pro, as attempts to replicate the issue on these devices running Android 13 were unsuccessful. Notably, the problematic reports mostly come from older Pixel models no longer receiving official updates.

Google’s Response

In response to the rising concerns, a Google spokesperson stated that the company is aware of the issue and is investigating the reported cases. This acknowledgment highlights the importance of user privacy and the need to address any security lapses.

How to Disable the “Take a Message” Feature

If users wish to disable this feature to prevent audio exposure, they can follow these steps:

1. Open the Phone app and tap the hamburger icon in the top-left corner.
2. Select “Settings.”
3. Scroll to the bottom and choose “Take a Message.”
4. Toggle the on/off switch to disable the feature.

Users concerned about their privacy should consider disabling this feature until a solution is provided. Keeping an eye on updates from Google will also be essential for resolving this issue.