Android Users Gain a Fart Button for Phone Calls

In a surprising twist, Google is set to enrich the audio experience during phone calls with the introduction of “Audio Emojis.” This novel feature, currently being tested in the beta version of the Google Phone app, provides a whimsical touch to everyday conversations by allowing users to play sound effects during calls.

As reported by 9to5Google, the feature, dubbed “Audio Emoji,” includes a palette of six distinct sounds: applause, laughter, a party horn, a sad trombone, a drumroll punchline sound (ba dum tss), and, rather unexpectedly, a fart noise. Each sound is represented by an emoji, and for some, a quirky animation accompanies the audio playback. For example, the poop emoji features a chocolate ice cream cone animation, humorously squishing to the ground amid a flurry of flies.

While this feature may cater to the playful or the pranksters among us, it is also indicative of Google’s continuous efforts to inject a bit of fun into their technology. However, Google also provides a way to opt out; users can simply close the Audio Emoji menu with a click if they prefer their calls sans the novelty.

This rollout is happening slowly, and not all users have access yet. The full capabilities and restrictions of Audio Emojis are still unfolding, as is user reception. With Google I/O just around the corner, perhaps the tech giant will unveil further enhancements or entirely new features. Regardless of its practicality, the Audio Emoji feature demonstrates Google’s commitment to experimenting with and diversifying user experience in its software updates.