Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 series is reportedly set to feature Google’s AI-powered scam detection, a security tool previously exclusive to Pixel devices. If confirmed, this would mark the first time the feature appears on non-Pixel smartphones – expanding its reach beyond Google’s hardware ecosystem.
The Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra are expected to launch later this month, and leaks suggest these models could debut with scam call detection integrated via Android’s CallCore service.
Here’s what we know so far about this development and what it means for users.
Scam Detection
A new report from Android Authority, in collaboration with developer AssembleDebug, uncovered references to scam detection functionality in the code of an updated version of the Android CallCore app. This system component, responsible for managing call features on Android phones, now includes internal flags pointing to support on Samsung’s S26 lineup.
Key findings from the teardown:
- The presence of
com.google.android.apps.callcore.SUPPORTED - Specific references to Galaxy S26 Ultra log files
- A model number match linking the S26 to scam detection testing
- Identifier “Sharpie” found, which has previously been linked to scam detection
All of this suggests strong internal testing and possible public rollout on the Galaxy S26 series.
What Is Google’s Scam Detection?
Scam detection was first announced by Google in March 2025 as an AI-driven feature aimed at improving call safety. It works by analyzing voice conversations on-device in real-time, identifying language patterns commonly used in scams.
Here’s how it works:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| AI Analysis | Detects patterns in conversations |
| Real-Time Alerts | Warns users mid-call with visual/audio alerts |
| Privacy-Focused | Entirely on-device, no data sent to servers |
| Availability | Pixel phones (currently), possibly Galaxy S26 |
Google emphasizes that no audio or text transcription is recorded, stored, or transmitted – ensuring complete privacy and security.
Why It Matters
If scam detection launches on the Galaxy S26, it would be the first time Google allows Pixel-exclusive AI features to be used on another brand’s smartphone. This could mark a shift in Google’s feature availability strategy, possibly due to its closer collaboration with Samsung on AI, Android, and security tools.
For Samsung users, it would provide:
- Improved call protection against fraud and phishing
- Real-time warnings during suspicious calls
- A safer overall communication experience
Previous Clues
In an earlier teardown of the Phone by Google app (v206.0.857916353), developers discovered references to the Galaxy S26’s model number, further confirming that scam detection was being tested for Samsung’s 2026 flagship.
Combined with the CallCore evidence, this significantly strengthens the case for official support.
Expected Rollout
While the feature isn’t confirmed by Samsung or Google yet, the evidence suggests that scam detection will debut on the Galaxy S26 series, possibly as a built-in feature enabled by Google CallCore on One UI 8.0+, running Android 15 or later.
Pixel to Galaxy
If scam detection expands to Samsung, it might pave the way for other Pixel-first AI features to appear on flagship Android phones from different OEMs. This could include real-time language translation, transcript summarization, or even Call Screen.
Such integration would elevate the Android ecosystem as a whole, offering premium AI tools across devices, not just Google’s own hardware.
The Samsung Galaxy S26 series, expected to launch this month, may be the first non-Pixel device to support Google’s scam detection – offering real-time protection from fraudulent calls using private, on-device AI. While official confirmation is awaited, code-level findings suggest that Samsung is about to make its flagship even more secure.
FAQs
What is Google’s scam detection feature?
An AI-based system that alerts users during suspicious phone calls.
Will scam detection work offline?
Yes, it runs entirely on-device with no data sent to Google servers.
Is scam detection currently on Samsung phones?
No, it may debut on the Galaxy S26 series for the first time.
How does scam detection alert users?
It provides pop-up, audio, and vibration alerts during calls.
When will Galaxy S26 be released?
Reports suggest it may launch later this month.
