Google Tests New AI-Powered ‘Ask for Me’ Feature to Automate Inquiries About Local Business Services

Google is rolling out a new feature called Ask for Me, which leverages AI to make phone calls on behalf of users to inquire about services, pricing, and availability from local businesses. The feature, currently in the testing phase, is available through Google’s Search Labs for those who have chosen company’s experimental features on both desktop and mobile versions.

Ask for Me aims to streamline the process of information acquisition by reducing the requirement for users to dial phone calls and speak directly with businesses. Businesses within certain categories including nail salons and auto repair shops will be the initial target of the feature for service inquiries.

Users enrolled in Search Labs can access Ask for Me by searching for local services, such as “oil change” or “nail salons nearby.” A prompt will appear with the option to “Ask for me,” followed by a “Get started” button. The feature will ask for details about the service, such as “tire replacement,” “factory scheduled maintenance,” or “french manicure,” and a time frame. Afterward, Google’s AI will contact local businesses and send users a summary of the prices and availability.

Google incorporates this feature into its wide-ranging initiative to streamline user interactions with businesses. In addition to Ask for Me, Google recently launched Talk to a Live Rep as another AI-powered tool providing users with automated call assistance from start to finish through the waiting period until a representative becomes available.

Additionally, Google released the Daily Listen feature which uses AI to create personalized audio content that delivers customized news updates as a part of its expanding time-saving user experience enhancements.

As Ask for Me undergoes testing, it marks a significant step in using AI to automate everyday tasks, potentially revolutionizing the way consumers interact with businesses.