Google's Phone app adds smarter dual SIM calling controls in beta test

At a glance:

• Google is testing a new SIM selector menu in the Phone app that replaces the intrusive pre-call dialog
• The feature appears in Google Phone app version 224.0.921818792 public beta
• Users can set a preferred calling SIM that persists until manually changed

What's changing in the Phone app

Google appears to be addressing one of the more annoying aspects of dual-SIM Android phones with a new calling preference feature currently undergoing testing. Rather than forcing users to select which SIM to use before every single call, the company is implementing a subtler dropdown menu positioned above the dial pad that allows users to designate their preferred calling line. This selected SIM then remains active as the default for subsequent calls until the user decides to switch it.

The current implementation requires users to either set a universal default SIM in their phone's Settings menu or deal with a pop-up dialog that interrupts every outgoing call. While the per-call selection option serves users who actively switch between lines throughout the day, it becomes tedious for those who primarily use one SIM but occasionally need the secondary line. Google's solution aims to split the difference with a more flexible approach.

Why dual-SIM management matters now

Dual-SIM capability has become increasingly common across Android devices, extending beyond phones with two physical SIM slots to include single-SIM devices that support eSIM technology. Google's own Pixel lineup exemplifies this trend, allowing users to maintain two separate lines through a combination of physical SIM and eSIM provisioning. This flexibility has driven adoption even in markets like the United States, where carrier-locked devices traditionally dominated.

The rise in dual-SIM usage reflects changing consumer needs around work-life separation, international travel, and managing multiple service providers. However, stock Android's handling of dual-SIM calling preferences has lagged behind some manufacturer-customized versions and even iOS, which already offers more granular control over line selection without constant interruption.

How the new feature works

According to reports from the public beta version 224.0.921818792, the new interface element appears as a compact dropdown positioned above the main dial pad interface. Users can tap this selector to quickly toggle between their available SIM lines without navigating through multiple settings menus or dealing with call-time interruptions. The system maintains this preference across calls until explicitly changed.

Importantly, the feature preserves existing call settings behavior. If a user has configured a default SIM in their main phone Settings, calls made using the secondary SIM through this new interface will automatically revert to that default afterward. This design choice acknowledges that many users need occasional access to their secondary line rather than permanent switching.

Current limitations and market context

It's worth noting that this feature remains in testing and may not reach public release. APK teardowns can reveal upcoming functionality, but Google has historically modified or removed experimental features before they ship to stable channels. Users interested in trying the feature will need to join the Phone app's beta program through the Google Play Store.

Other Android implementations have already addressed similar pain points. Manufacturer-customized interfaces like Samsung's One UI and Xiaomi's MIUI often include more refined dual-SIM management tools. Apple's iPhone dialer similarly allows users to specify calling lines without constant confirmation prompts, suggesting this represents an area where stock Android has room for improvement.

What to expect going forward

The feature's eventual rollout timeline remains unclear, though its presence in a public beta suggests Google is actively developing it for wider release. When it does arrive, it should provide relief for users frustrated by the current all-or-nothing approach to dual-SIM calling preferences. The change aligns with Google's ongoing efforts to refine core Android experiences based on user feedback and competitive pressures.

For now, dual-SIM users on stock Android devices will need to continue using existing workarounds or wait for the feature to graduate from beta testing. The implementation represents a thoughtful middle ground between complete automation and manual control, potentially setting a new standard for how Android handles multi-line calling scenarios.