Google Phone App Introduces iPhone-Like Full-Screen Calling Cards on Android

Google Introduces iPhone-Like Full-Screen Calling Cards on Android

Overview

Google is currently testing a sleek new feature called “Calling Cards” in its Android Phone and Contacts apps. Beta users of version 188 of Phone by Google and Contacts version 4.61 now have the option to replace the traditional small contact image with a full-screen contact image, complete with personalized name design. This marks a major UI overhaul aimed at enhancing user experience in the incoming call screen.
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Why It Matters: Bringing iOS Styling to Android

This feature mimics the Contact Posters introduced in iOS 17 in 2023. While iPhones let users customize how others see their identity when calling, Google’s Calling Cards are personalized for the receiver’s screen only. It transforms the call interface from a minimal display to an immersive, customized visual experience.
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What You Can Expect With Calling Cards

• Full-Screen Background Image: Choose any photo from your camera, gallery, or Google Photos to use as the caller’s backdrop.
• Text Customization: Select from a broad palette—Autumn Orange, Vivid Cyan, Navy—to style the display of the contact’s name.
• Advanced Integration: Once available, you’ll see a prompt within a contact’s info to “Try adding a calling card.”
• Shape Shift: Google internally names this “Patrick”—a break from the standard circular profile picture.
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How To Enable Calling Cards (If You’re a Beta User)

1. Ensure App Versions:
   • Google Phone App: Version 188 beta
   • Google Contacts App: Version 4.61+
2. Open a Contact: You should see a “Try adding a calling card” prompt.
3. Customize:
   • Add or adjust an image
   • Choose text style and color
4. Save — and your incoming call screen will reflect this personalized layout.

Alternatively, head into the Phone App to activate this via a “Get Started” option.
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Upcoming Design Trends: Material 3 Expressive Integration

The Calling Cards rollout is part of Google’s broader UI upgrade to Material 3 Expressive, first visible in the Contacts app overhaul. Watch for rounded, container-like layouts in contact cards and more prominent “Call,” “Message,” “Video,” and “Email” pill buttons.
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What’s Next: Wider Release and Potential Gestures

While currently limited to beta testers, it’s expected Calling Cards will arrive soon in stable releases across Android. Google is also aligning this feature with new swipe and tap gestures for answering calls—making the experience more intuitive.
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User Sentiments: Real-World Feedback

On Reddit, users have been voicing frustration over the standard small call screen. Many want customizable full-screen displays—especially for visually rich, personalized experience. Though Calling Cards don’t support sharing how you appear on others’ phones (like iOS), they still enhance personalization.
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Final Thoughts

Google’s Calling Cards can transform the mundane calling screen into a vibrant and personalized interaction moment. While not groundbreaking, the introduction of this feature alongside Material 3’s design makeover injects a fresh, expressive style across core Android apps. Rollout will likely expand with the upcoming Pixel 10 launch and other Android updates.

Stay tuned, and keep your apps updated—you might just get a cool new call screen soon!