Google is expanding its Duplex restaurant reservation service in American states but only 43 states have confirmed the expansion. Local laws in seven other states are blocking the tech giant's expansion plans due to consent restrictions in the recording.
According to The Verge, not all U.S. states allow for recording audio files without consent. Concerns about Google's nondisclosure of some processes within its Duplex app have emerged ever since the company initiated a demo last year.
While the Menlo Park-headquartered firm clarified that it will eventually disclose the identity of Duplex, some users pointed out that details about the artificial intelligence (AI) reservation system were unclear.
In a statement sent to the outlet, Google explained, "As we continue to bring Duplex technology to more users across the country, we want to ensure that we carefully respect local/state laws. We're actively working to reach full coverage, but don't have a timeline to share at this time."
Despite concerns about Duplex's identity, Google said it will not change the way the reservation's system calls a restaurant. The company reiterated that it is an automated AI-powered system that will record call conversations.
Analysts believe that with Google's AI reservation system expanding to the majority of U.S. states, consumers and enthusiasts alike will have a clearer understanding of how restaurant owners and users feel about a robot making restaurant reservations.
Meanwhile, the 43 states involved in Google's Duplex expansion are looking forward to the development since the system was only available to a limited number of cities before the expansion was announced.
Engadget reported that the automated voice-calling tech will now be available for Pixel phone owners. Duplex can be used if users are planning to book with a restaurant that allows of online booking. The AI robot will go through the reservation procedures for the user. An email or phone notification will then be sent by the AI assistant to the user with details about the booking.
Experts noted that Duplex's expansion can help propel Google's overall presence in the tech industry. Previously, the company had its Reserve with Google Program but also had limited services. With the Duplex, any restaurant with an online booking system can be contacted.
The highly-anticipated service will be available for iOS and Android devices, Tech Crunch reported. Google said it will continue to upgrade and remodel the system based on feedback from consumers and analysts who will use the AI-powered reservation service.
