Caller identification major Truecaller on Tuesday introduced an innovative artificial intelligence (AI)-driven feature designed to combat spam calls effectively. Integrated into the ‘Max’ update, Truecaller’s new feature automatically blocks incoming calls that do not originate from an approved contact or are identified as spam calls by its sophisticated AI algorithm, the media has reported.
Although the feature includes a cautionary note about the potential for missing legitimate calls, Truecaller has assured users that their feedback will be considered. However, the company has not disclosed its methodology for identifying spam calls. While users can report calls as spam, it remains unclear if Truecaller employs additional methods to autonomously identify such numbers.
The AI-driven ‘Max’ spam blocking feature is exclusively available on Truecaller’s Android application, as iOS prohibits caller ID apps from tracking spammer status or automatically blocking those numbers. Users must subscribe to Truecaller’s Premium plan to unlock this feature. In India, the paid tiers start at a monthly rate of Rs 75 and an annual fee of Rs 529.
Truecaller app’s paid subscribers can access the new feature by navigating to Settings > Block. Previously, this setting included two tabs — Off and Basic — allowing users to customise their spam call handling preferences. With the Off setting, spam callers are identified but not blocked, while the Basic mode automatically blocks calls from numbers reported as spammers by the community. Now, a new tab labelled Max has been introduced.
By opting for Max, the Truecaller app will automatically block calls originating from recognised spammers.
However, users are cautioned that this setting may inadvertently block calls from legitimate businesses.
Kunal Dua, Vice President of Search at Truecaller, was quoted as saying by TechCrunch that the company conducted extensive testing, employing “multiple dozen algorithms” across various markets to identify spam numbers. These were then integrated into its AI systems to implement the feature. Truecaller also emphasised its commitment to incorporating user feedback to enhance the feature and will continue to do so.
“Obviously, we try our best to distinguish between spam and legitimate businesses. But there can be certain cases where some legitimate businesses may temporarily [blocked],” Dua was quoted as saying by TechCrunch.
