Why Portrait Mode Matters
The Google Phone app traditionally switches to a landscape two‑column layout during calls, showing the calling card on the left and call controls on the right. While useful on large screens, it can be annoying for users who prefer portrait orientation, especially when walking around with auto‑rotate enabled.
How to Enable Portrait Mode on Calls
Google responded to user feedback by adding a “Keep portrait mode on calls” toggle. Here’s how to turn it on:
- Open the Google Phone app.
- Tap the navigation drawer (three‑line menu) in the top‑left corner.
- Select Settings → Display options.
- Find the Keep portrait mode on calls switch and enable it.
The option is enabled by default in recent builds.
Rollout and Version Details
The portrait‑mode toggle began rolling out after beta testing in December and January. It is now widely available in version 206 of the Google Phone app, though a server‑side component is also required. If you don’t see the setting yet, try force‑stopping the app from Android’s App info screen and relaunching it.
Troubleshooting
If the toggle is missing or has no effect:
- Ensure you are running Google Phone app version 206 or later.
- Force stop the app (Settings → Apps → Phone by Google → Force stop) and reopen it.
- Check for any pending system updates that might include the server‑side component.
After these steps, the portrait mode option should appear and work as expected.
Related Updates
Google has been active with other Phone app improvements, such as fixing the “Take a Message” microphone bug on older Pixel devices, introducing a short Material 3 expressive bottom bar, and rolling out “Expressive Calling” that can break through Do‑Not‑Disturb.