Google’s Scam Detection May Arrive on Galaxy S26 Series
Google’s AI-powered Scam Detection feature, previously exclusive to Pixel smartphones, might soon make its debut on Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series. This development comes after code references were discovered in the latest Google Phone app update, hinting that Samsung’s upcoming flagship devices could benefit from this advanced security tool. If true, this would mark a significant shift, as Scam Detection has been one of the standout features that set Pixel phones apart.
Details on the Scam Detection Feature and Galaxy S26 Models
Scam Detection alerts users in real time about potential scam calls, texts, and even suspicious activity within chat apps, utilising on-device AI to provide protection without compromising privacy. The feature was introduced with the Pixel 9 series and has been refined across subsequent Pixel generations. Notably, the Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 series in select countries use Google’s on-device Gemini Nano AI Core to power this detection.
The recent discovery in the Google Phone app’s code includes model numbers corresponding to the Galaxy S26 lineup: SM-S942 for the Galaxy S26, SM-S947 for the Galaxy S26 Plus, and SM-S948 for the Galaxy S26 Ultra. These appear alongside Pixel device codenames and a reference to “Sharpie,” the internal codename for Scam Detection, strongly suggesting that Samsung’s new phones could adopt the same technology.
Challenges and Context Around Implementation
One complication is that Samsung phones traditionally do not come with the Google Phone app pre-installed, instead relying on Samsung’s own dialler app. While users can manually install Google’s Phone app from the Play Store, it remains uncertain whether this would grant the necessary system-level permissions for Scam Detection to function fully. This raises the question of whether Samsung will switch to Google’s Phone app as the default dialler on the Galaxy S26 series.
Samsung has previously moved from its own Messages app to Google Messages earlier in 2024 to improve support for RCS messaging, showing a willingness to adopt Google’s apps when beneficial. However, there is less apparent incentive to replace the dialler app unless Google offers compelling advantages, such as exclusive features like Scam Detection.
What to Expect Next
Neither Google nor Samsung has officially confirmed this potential collaboration or the inclusion of Scam Detection on the Galaxy S26 series. As with many features revealed through APK teardowns and code analysis, there is always a possibility that these plans may change before launch. Nevertheless, this leak offers an intriguing glimpse into how Samsung and Google might deepen their partnership, enhancing security features on flagship devices beyond the Pixel ecosystem.
We will continue to monitor developments closely and update as more information becomes available regarding the Galaxy S26’s software and security capabilities.