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Google's AI Calling Local Businesses for Customers ("Ask for Me"): What Owners Should Know
Google has tested features where its AI calls local businesses on a customer's behalf to check prices and availability — for services like salons, car repair or pet grooming — and AI assistants can increasingly make calls and bookings. Learn how these calls work, how to recognise them, opt-out settings in Business Profile where offered, how to answer AI calls well, and how to prepare your business for AI-driven enquiries.
By Chamko Research Team Updated 5 min read
Quick answer
Google has introduced features (such as "Ask for me" in some markets) where its AI phones local businesses on behalf of a searcher to ask about prices and availability, then reports back. Calls usually identify themselves as automated calls from Google. Availability depends on country and category and is expanding over time. If offered, you can manage whether your business receives such calls in your Business Profile settings. Answer them like any enquiry: clearly state prices, availability and next steps. Publishing prices, services and booking links on your profile reduces the need for calls.
Quick answer: Google has introduced features (such as "Ask for me" in some markets) where its AI phones local businesses on behalf of a searcher to ask about prices and availability, then reports back. Calls usually identify themselves as automated calls from Google. Availability depends on country and category and is expanding over time. If offered, you can manage whether your business receives such calls in your Business Profile settings. Answer them like any enquiry: clearly state prices, availability and next steps. Publishing prices, services and booking links on your profile reduces the need for calls.
AI assistants are starting to act on behalf of customers: finding businesses, comparing options and even calling. Owners don't need to fear this, but should be ready.
How AI calling works
A customer searching, say, "oil change near me" may be offered the option to have Google's AI call several nearby businesses to ask about price and availability. The AI calls, asks a few questions, and sends the customer a summary. The customer then chooses and contacts the business.
Google has used similar technology before (Duplex) to confirm hours and make restaurant reservations in some countries.
How to recognise an AI call
- The caller usually says it's an automated call from Google on behalf of a customer.
- It asks specific, short questions: price for a service, availability today, booking options.
- It may ask whether you'd like to opt out of future calls.
If you're unsure, ask: "Is this an automated call?" Never share OTPs, passwords or payment details on any unsolicited call (free or paid scams).
Opt-out settings
Where these features operate, Business Profile settings may include an option to manage or opt out of AI calls. Check your profile settings and Google's help pages for your country. You can also opt out during the call if offered.
Should you opt out?
Consider:
- Benefit: you appear in the shortlist when customers compare prices and availability.
- Cost: staff time answering calls.
Many businesses benefit from staying in, as long as they answer clearly. If calls are frequent, publishing prices on your profile may reduce them.
How to answer AI calls well
- Answer promptly and politely.
- Give clear prices or price ranges ("Haircut is ₹300, beard trim ₹150").
- Say whether you have availability today or tomorrow.
- Mention how to book: WhatsApp, phone or online booking link.
- Keep it short and accurate.
Train staff with a script (phone scripts).
Reduce calls by publishing information
AI and customers call when information is missing. Add to your profile:
- Services with prices (products and services, price range).
- Accurate hours, including breaks (split hours).
- Booking links (booking links).
- FAQs in your description and website.
AI assistants beyond Google
Customers may also use AI assistants that make bookings through apps, websites or phone. Clear online booking, WhatsApp ordering and well-structured websites make it easier for any assistant to recommend and book you (AI search for local business, AI wrong information).
Privacy and recording
Automated calls may be recorded by the service. Avoid sharing personal or sensitive customer information on any call.
Prepare your business for AI enquiries
- Consistent, published prices.
- Fast, accurate phone answering.
- Online booking or WhatsApp booking.
- Up-to-date availability.
- Complete Business Profile (profile strength).
Example: a car service centre
A service centre receiving AI price calls listed its standard service packages with prices on its profile. Calls became faster, and customers arrived knowing the price.
Example: a salon
A salon trained its receptionist to answer automated enquiries with prices and the next free slot, and added a WhatsApp booking link. It began getting bookings from customers who had compared several salons through AI summaries.
Checklist
- Learn to recognise AI calls
- Check opt-out settings in your profile
- Train staff with a short script
- Publish prices and booking links
- Keep hours and availability accurate
- Never share OTPs or payment details on calls
Key takeaways
- AI calls are enquiries from real customers, made by software.
- Clear prices and availability help you win them.
- Publishing information on your profile reduces calls.
Sources and further reading
- Google Business Profile Help — AI calling and settings: support.google.com/business
- Google AI Mode and local businesses
A sample answer script
"Hello, this is Glow Salon. For a women's haircut, prices start at ₹400; hair spa is ₹800. We have slots available today after 4 pm and tomorrow morning. Customers can book on WhatsApp at [number] or online through our Google profile. Thank you!"
Keep the script near the phone, and update prices when they change.
Price consistency matters
If an AI call is told ₹400 but your Google profile says ₹350 and the counter charges ₹450, customers will complain. Keep phone answers, profile prices, menus and bills consistent (raise prices without losing customers).
Track AI-driven enquiries
Ask new customers how they found you. If some say "Google called around for me", that's an AI-driven lead. Track these alongside normal Google calls to see whether the feature brings you business.
Frequently asked questions
Does Google's AI really call businesses?
Yes, in some markets and categories, to ask about prices and availability.
Is it available in India?
Availability varies and may expand; check Google's current information.
Can I opt out?
Where offered, through Business Profile settings or during the call.
How should staff respond?
Give clear prices, availability and booking options.
Will AI calls replace customers calling?
Not entirely, but they're a growing way customers compare businesses.
How do I reduce these calls?
Publish prices, hours and booking links on your profile.
Will the AI book appointments directly?
Current features mainly collect prices and availability; customers then contact you.
Are AI calls recorded?
They may be; avoid sharing sensitive information.