Hiya, the Seattle-based leader in voice intelligence and security, has launched its AI-powered phone assistant app, the Hiya AI Phone, aimed at tackling the increasing prevalence of deepfake scams, robocalls, and other mobile threats. With the rise of generative AI technology, cybercriminals have become more adept at executing successful scams, making it imperative for users to adopt protective measures.
The Hiya AI Phone app serves as a virtual gatekeeper for incoming calls. Whenever users receive calls from unknown numbers, the app automatically answers, prompting the caller to state their name and purpose for calling. This information is assessed using advanced AI algorithms to decide whether to connect the call to the user or not. If the call is connected, the app announces the caller’s identity and intent, allowing the user to determine if they wish to engage. This innovative feature addresses the growing frustration of consumers who find themselves bombarded by unwanted calls.
According to the company, the Hiya AI Phone goes beyond mere convenience. It is equipped with capabilities for recognizing and alerting users to potential deepfake challenges. These deepfakes, which falsely mimic real people’s voices, pose significant risks, especially for those managing sensitive financial or personal information. The app utilizes models trained on user interactions to identify subtle discrepancies in audio patterns, effectively distinguishing between genuine human voices and AI-generated or modified ones.
Recent studies suggest alarmingly high levels of exposure to deepfake scams. Research by Hiya states, “One in three Americans received at least one deepfake scam call” within the past year, with 34% of those targeted incurring financial losses averaging $7,200. The report highlights the need for solutions like the Hiya AI Phone as businesses continue to confront fraud associated with advanced AI technologies.
Henry Patishman, executive vice president for online identity verification at Regula, cited deepfakes as growing threats, emphasizing their efficacy in fraudulent activities: "Deepfakes are increasingly being used in fraudulent activities, and concern is growing as the technology becomes more advanced and affordable.” These sentiments underline the necessity for secure communication tools as businesses lose nearly $450,000 per incident due to these scams.
functionality of the Hiya AI Phone also encompasses real-time scam detection. The app employs AI models to continuously analyze conversations for scam indicators, instantly notifying the user of potential risks. If it identifies suspicious elements from the caller — whether human, recorded, or AI-generated — the app vibrates the phone and displays warnings. This protective measure is central to the app’s mission to safeguard professionals from being misled or robbed of their valuable time.
Notably, the app provides automated note-taking features. Users can benefit from concise summaries of their calls. The transcription function turns conversations directly from spoken dialogue to written summaries, allowing busy professionals to keep track of important discussions without the need for manual note-taking. Hiya ensures all call data is encrypted and stored exclusively on the user’s device, emphasizing user privacy.
Alex Algard, the founder and CEO of Hiya, placed his vision for the app within the broader conversation around mobile innovation: "For years, phone apps have stagnated, offering little innovation since their introduction on smartphones. Mobile phones are the ideal platform for AI to make a meaningful impact." He advocates for using AI to improve the calling experience significantly, especially amid the complexity posed by robocalls and scams.
Hiya also recognizes the need for continued vigilance. Eyal Benishti, CEO of email security software maker Ironscales, expressed cautious optimism over Hiya’s app: "While an iPhone app tackling this issue is promising, cybersecurity must evolve as quickly as the threats themselves". The necessity for proactive defenses remains steadfast as the industry circles become ever-more sophisticated.
Available for both Android and iPhone users, Hiya AI Phone is free to download, with premium features offered at $9.99 per month following a complimentary two-week trial. This accessibility allows users to explore the benefits of real-time call protection, streamlined communication management, and overall enhanced call security.
Given the apparent increase in calling disruptions faced by individuals and businesses alike — with Americans reportedly spending over 40 minutes each month simply screening unwanted calls — the necessity for tools such as Hiya AI Phone cannot be overstated. It's clear this app provides more than just convenience; it serves as both defense and assistance within the increasingly complex realities of modern phone interactions.
Through its innovative features and commitment to user security, Hiya AI Phone marks what could be the beginning of more significant advancements within mobile technology. With deepfake scams and other threats on the rise, users can significantly benefit from the app's capabilities, which promise to bring balance back to their phone experiences.