I've always appreciated how Google continuously tries to improve its apps, and the Phone app is no exception. It already has handy features like Spam Rejection and Call Screen that help you avoid unwanted calls. However, a new feature might be in the works that could let important calls get through, even when you've got "Do Not Disturb" turned on. It sounds like Google is planning to let you mark your calls as urgent, which is something I think many of us could use. Imagine being able to signal to someone that you really need to talk to them right away.

This "Expressive Calling" feature, as it's currently called in the code, will seemingly allow callers to add a text message explaining why their call is urgent. From what I could gather, it seems like you'll get a few pre-set options to choose from. Right now, the code suggests options with emojis, but it's possible that Google will add more choices or even let you write your own custom messages before the feature is released.

However, there's a catch. These messages will be sent via RCS, which means you'll need to grant SMS permissions. More importantly, it seems like the person you're calling might not always see these messages, especially if they're not using Google's Phone app. I really hope Google can find a way to make this work reliably, because it could be incredibly useful.

Important Details

From what I understand, this "Expressive Calling" feature will likely be limited to your contacts, which is a relief. I can only imagine the chaos if spammers could mark their calls as urgent! That said, it seems that even if someone isn't in your favorites, an urgent call can break through the "Do Not Disturb" barrier. So it's a powerful tool, and I think it's important for Google to implement it carefully.

I also learned that there might be special notifications for missed urgent calls, so you know when someone was trying to reach you with something important. Since the feature isn't live yet, it's hard to say exactly how it will all work. It may take some time before Google releases it to the public.

Aside from Expressive Calling, Google is also apparently working on a simpler feature that would prevent the Phone app from switching to landscape mode during calls, even if auto-rotate is enabled. This sounds like a smaller, but welcome improvement. It seems like this one may arrive sooner, so keep an eye out.