Google has introduced a new agentic calling feature in the United States for local retail searches on Google Search. The capability lets users ask Google to call nearby stores to check product availability, prices, and discounts, then return the information in a consolidated summary. Google outlined the feature and its usage flow in a recent Shopping blog announcement.
Key Details
According to Google, the agentic calling feature activates for certain product searches that include phrases such as "near me" or "nearby." It currently focuses on categories like toys, health and beauty items, and electronics sold through local retailers. The entire experience runs within Google Search results on both mobile and desktop.
- Users search for a product and add "near me" or "nearby" to signal interest in local purchase options.
- An option labeled "Let Google call" appears in results, followed by a "Get started" button to initiate the process.
- Google then shows a short list of questions, customized to the product type, to clarify what information it should collect.
- Users choose whether to receive a summary of findings by text message, email, or both.
- Google places calls to relevant local businesses and compiles the responses into a single summary message.
- Google states that it gathers details such as availability, price, and any discounts mentioned by store staff.
Google describes the calling feature as available to shoppers in the United States. The announcement excerpt specifies the United States and does not reference other countries in that section.
Background Context
Google Search already surfaces local store details through Business Profiles, including merchant-provided addresses, hours, and phone numbers. The new agentic calling capability adds a layer where Google can contact stores directly in response to user searches, then return structured answers.
Google has previously used automated calling in Google Duplex, introduced at Google I/O 2018 for restaurant and salon bookings. Duplex also handles some business information requests, such as confirming holiday hours, in supported regions.
The new feature was announced in a post within Google's Shopping product updates section and is framed around holiday shopping. Google connects the agentic calling experience to its broader push to support local retail searches during the holiday period.
Source Citations
Information in this article is based on publicly available material from Google's official product communications. Primary source documents are listed below for reference.
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