Ever found yourself mid-call, phone awkwardly flipping to landscape mode while you’re trying to multitask or simply walk around? It’s a small frustration, but one that Google has finally addressed with a game-changing update to its Phone app. After months of user feedback and beta testing, Google has rolled out the ‘Keep portrait mode on calls’ setting, ensuring your screen stays put during conversations—no more accidental rotations. But here’s where it gets interesting: while this feature is a welcome addition for many, it’s also enabled by default, which might catch some users off guard. Is this a step toward convenience or an overreach in decision-making for users? Let’s dive in.
The Google Phone app has long offered a landscape interface during calls, splitting the screen into two columns. On the left, you see the caller’s details—their name, number, and a calling card—while the right side houses call controls. This layout is ideal for large screens but can be a nuisance if your auto-rotate setting is enabled, especially when you’re on the move. And this is the part most people miss: the update isn’t just about convenience; it’s a direct response to user complaints, as highlighted in Google’s support forums (https://support.google.com/phoneapp/thread/403765417/keep-calls-in-portrait-mode-in-the-google-phone-app).
To toggle this setting, simply:
1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the Menu (three bars), then navigate to Settings > Display options.
3. Disable ‘Keep portrait mode’ if you prefer the old behavior.
This feature is rolling out more widely with version 206 of the Google Phone app (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.dialer), though it’s worth noting that there’s a server-side component involved. If you’re not seeing it yet, try force-stopping the app from App Info to prompt the update.
But here’s the controversial bit: While most users will likely appreciate the change, some might argue that Google is making decisions on their behalf by enabling the feature by default. Should users have to opt out of something they never asked for? Or is this a minor inconvenience for the sake of a smoother experience? Weigh in below—we’d love to hear your thoughts.
For those keeping up with Google Phone updates, here’s a quick roundup:
- Google recently confirmed a ‘Take a Message’ microphone bug, disabling the feature on older Pixel phones (https://9to5google.com/2026/01/28/pixel-take-a-message-bug/).
- The app also received a sleek Material 3 Expressive bottom bar redesign (https://9to5google.com/2026/01/19/google-phone-m3-expressive-bottom-bar/).
- And in beta, an ‘urgent’ Expressive Calling feature is being tested, capable of bypassing Do Not Disturb mode (https://9to5google.com/2025/12/13/google-phone-expressive-calling-beta/).
FTC Disclosure: We use income-earning auto affiliate links. Learn more here: (https://9to5mac.com/about/#affiliate).
